Miss Universe PH 2022 Celeste Cortesi bares #UniquelyBeautiful heart for family. The newly hailed queen is also this year’s Miss PLDT Home!

Tweet

Besting 31 other candidates with her unique beauty, wit, and passion for her advocacies, Pasay City’s Celeste Cortesi clinched the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 crown. The Filipino-Italian beauty is also now the new Miss PLDT Home titleholder.

The 24-year-old Cortesi is no stranger to pageants, after representing the Philippines at the Miss Earth competition in 2018. In this year's competition, Cortesi showed grace, intelligence, and candor in conquering the Miss Universe Philippines stage. She shares, “I am excited to be part of the Miss Universe Philippines Organization. I will be working with them to advance my advocacies for women’s education and protection of our country’s indigenous people and rich cultural heritage.”

Besides her advocacies, Cortesi proves that she’s a queen with a uniquely beautiful heart. Throughout the Miss Universe Philippines pageant, she has been outspoken about her deep love and care for her family. “Since I was a kid, my parents have taught me the power of gratitude and kindness for everyone I meet. I always believe that being grateful creates a ripple effect and in turn, brings the best out of people.”

Cortesi further emphasized the importance of strong bonds with family and loved ones. In her winning answer at the final question and answer portion, she said, “If I could stop time, I would spend it with my family, especially my mother. It’s been two years since I haven’t spent time with my family because they live in Italy, and I came here in the Philippines just by myself. If I had a chance to spend one day, I would definitely be with my mom, and I would just tell her how much I love her and I miss her.”

As the newest PLDT Home Ambassador, Cortesi shows that strong connections can powerfully conquer distances. After winning the Miss Universe Philippines title, she even shared a heartwarming tribute for her mom on social media with the caption: “Far from each other, but always connected. To make you proud is the greatest fulfillment of my life.”

Joining Cortesi as this year’s Miss Universe Philippines titleholders are Miss Universe Philippines Tourism Michelle Marquez Dee, Miss Universe Philippines Charity, Pauline Cucharo Amelinckx, Miss Universe Philippines 1st runner-up Annabelle McDonnell, and Miss Universe Philippines 2nd runner-up Ma. Katrina Llegado.

PLDT Home is the official broadband partner of Miss Universe Philippines. As the fastest and most powerful internet connection in the country, PLDT Home has been enabling families – just like Cortesi’s – to do things better and to build stronger and more meaningful bonds at home.

Cortesi will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2022 pageant to be held in December in San José, California.

Follow and be part of her Miss Universe journey of using the hashtags #BeAStrongerYou, #MUPH2022, and #UniquelyBeautiful. Stay updated with the latest news about PLDT Home through its social media pages on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pldthome), Instagram and Twitter (@pldthome).

Kylie Verzosa was crowned 2016 Miss International

Tweet

Miss Philippines Kylie Verzosa was crowned 2016 Miss International in the coronation held at Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan on Thursday. 

Versoza is the sixth Miss International crown for the Philippines.

Winners are the following : 

4th Runner up – Miss USA

3rd Runner up – Miss Nicaragua

2nd runner up – Miss Indonesia

1st runner up – Miss Australia

"If I become Miss International 2016, I will devote myself to cultural understanding and international understanding because I believe that it is in developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate difference and appreciate diversity," she said in her speech after the announcement of the top 15 finalists. 

Verzosa thanked all those who joined her in her journey.

"I cannot believe this moment right now, and I am ecstatic and happy. Thank you so much to my family, to the Philippines, to everyone who supported me. I did not go through this journey alone, but I had a lot of help from the people who love me. I deeply appreciate this. This moment has only happened in my dreams. Thank you so much, Japan. Thank you, Miss International," she said.

Aside from the big winners, other contestants also received special awards:

Miss International ASIA - Hong Kong

Miss International EUROPE - Netherlands

Miss International AMERICA - Ecuador

Miss International AFRICA - Sierra Leone

Miss International OCEANIA - Hawaii

Top 15 were: 

Finland

Mexico

Japan

El Salvador

Canada

Dominican Republic

Argentina

Russia

Thailand

Poland

Special Awards : 

National costume   -   Miss Nicaragua 

Miss Best Dresser   -  Miss Indonesia

Miss Perfect Body -   Miss Moldova

Binibining Pilipinas took to Facebook to congratulate Verzosa.

"Congratulations to the new Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, besting over 69 other candidates in the pageant held in Tokyo, Japan. Your journey of finding true beauty and strength is an inspiration to every Filipina; and your advocacy is a shining example of selflessness and true humanity that many should emulate. BPCI is proud to have supported you every step of the way."

Here’s a full text of Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa

"Three things come to mind when I think of Miss International – Culture, education and international understanding. These three works together to make the brand of the Miss International beauty pageant relevant to the global community and to our time.
If I become Miss International 2016, I will devote myself to cultural understanding and international understanding because I believe that it is with developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate difference, and appreciate diversity. 

All these enable us to achieve international understanding. And I believe I'm prepared to take on this responsibility. 

Domo arigatou gozaimasu."

#MissInternational2016

#ForThePhilippines

Metro Magazine's Silver Anniversary Issue : Metro Body, with Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner Up Ariella Arida

Tweet

To kick off its 25th anniversary year, Metro is bringing its readers the boldest and most daring edition of its highly anticipated Metro Body Issue, where Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner Up Ariella Arida sizzles on the cover in one of the season’s hottest trends.

This Saturday (January 11), get the chance to be part of her meet and greet plus autograph signing of the magazine at National Bookstore in Glorietta 1.

Ara looks fresher and fiercer than ever in tropical prints, divulging what she’s really like underneath it all—the title, the glamour, and the limelight. She opens up about life after the world’s most prestigious pageant, revealing things she’s never revealed before.

Joining Ara in this ultra exciting issue are today’s most talked about personalities in entertainment, modeling, and sports, alongside fresh faces whose stars will shine brighter, and some of the most standout names from Metro Body features past.

Among those that took on Metro’s challenge of baring their all in the truest sense of the word are the likes of Brent Javier, Carlos Agassi, Cristine Reyes, Dennis Trillo, Enrique Gil, Jake Letts, Janna Tee, Jason Abalos, JC de Vera, Jessica Yang, Joaco Cañas, John James Uy, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Randy See, Raphael Robes, Rayver and Rodjun Cruz, Rufa Mae Quinto, Sam Concepcion, Sky Yang, Sunshine Cruz, Tom Rodriguez, Valerie Weigmann, Victor Basa, Vince Ferraren, the Viva Hot Babes, and Wendy Tabusalla—shown wearing only the must-have accessories from the Resort 2014 collection.

Metro also gives its readers a closer look into how to sport Resort 2014’s hottest trends, from nautical and white, to denim and tropical prints—carefully putting together the best selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories. Apart from all that, get tips on how to be a fresh-faced, glowing beauty with our tips for luminous skin, and take a closer look at the spectacular event that was, the Metrowear Icon: Francis Libiran gala.

The Metro January Issue is out in bookstores and newsstands nationwide for only P150.

Like Metro Magazine on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Metro.Magazine)

 and follow Metro on Twitter or Instagram (@MetroMagPH).

Don’t miss out on the chance to bear witness to some of the hottest stars featured in the Metro Body Issue in the flesh, including covergirl Ara Arida herself at Metro’s special meet and greet event this Saturday (January 11). 

Registration opens at 2:00pm.

Miss Universe 2013 Winners (partial)

Tweet

The 62nd edition of Miss Universe  was held at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Russia. 

Here’s the complete list of Top 16, Top 10, and Final 5 winners:

Top 5 Finalists

1. Ecuador - Constanza Báez
2. Brazil - Jakelyne Oliveira
3. Spain - Patricia Rodríguez
4. Philippines - Ariella Arida
5. Venezuela - María Gabriela Isler

Top 10

1. Spain - Patricia Rodríguez
2. Philippines - Ariella Arida
3. Great Britain - Amy Willerton
4. India - Manasi Moghe
5. Brazil - Jakelyne Oliveira
6. USA - Erin Brady
7. Ukraine - Olga Storozhenko
8. Ecuador - Constanza Báez
9. Venezuela - María Gabriela Isler
10. Dominican Republic - Yaritza Reyes

Top 16 (in no particular order):

1. Costarica - Fabiana Granados
2. Ukraine - Olga Storozhenko
3. China - Jin Ye
4. Ecuador - Constanza Báez
5. Great Britain - Amy Willerton
6. Indonesia - Whulandary Herman
7. Venezuela - María Gabriela Isler
8. Dominican Republic - Yaritza Reyes
9. Puerto Rico - Monic Pérez
10. Spain - Patricia Rodríguez
11. USA - Erin Brady
12. Nicaragua - Nastassja Bolívar
13. Switzerland - Dominique Rinderknecht
14. India - Manasi Moghe
15. Brazil - Jakelyne Oliveira
16. Philippines - Ariella Arida

Special awards
Miss Congeniality - 
Miss Photogenic - 
Best in National Costume - Nicaragua – Nastassja Bolívar

Will Ariella Arida be the third Miss Philippines to win Miss Universe?

Tweet

The 62nd Miss Universe pageant day’s countdown is almost over. Eighty-six gorgeous ladies to compete for the Miss Universe 2013 crown.

The whole world with excitement waits with this much awaited Miss Universe 2013 coronation night to be held Saturday night at Moscow's Crocus City Hall.

Stunning contestants from 86 countries will compete in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and personal interview round and battle it out to win the coveted crown.

And at the end of a two-hour programme, the reigning Miss Universe, Olivia Culpo of USA will crown her successor.

Predicted to win Miss Universe 2013, Miss Philippines Ariella Arida, included in the 

Top 16 Finalists:

Costa Rica
Ukraine
China
Ecuador
Great Britain
Indonesia
Venezuela
Dominican Republic 
Puerto Rico
Spain
USA
Nicaragua
Switzerland
India
Brazil
Philippines 

Miss Universe 2013 Finale Highlights

The pageant's official swimwear partner, Italian swimwear and lingerie maker YAMAMAY, is also all set to surprise the world during the finale. They will unveil a spectacular emerald, ruby and diamond swimsuit valued at one million dollars.

The newly crowned Miss Universe 2013 will wear this unique swimsuit, which has travelled from Milan, Italy, to Moscow (with armed guards) just in time for the event, a day after the coronation.

Miss Universe 2013: Hosts

SNBC Live's host Thomas Roberts and America's Got Talent's judge, Melanie Brown or Mel B of the Spice Girls, will host the gala which will be telecast live from Moscow at 9 pm ET (2 am GMT).

Judges

The judges for the spectacular finale are acclaimed Chef Nobu; gold medalist skater Tara Lipinski; television personality Carol Alt; supermodel turned actress and author, Anne V; one of the pageant's sponsorers, Farouk Shami; Italo Fontana, pioneering designer of U-BOAT Watches; the iconic russian pop-star, Philip Kirkorov and last but not the least, Steven Tyler, Aerosmith's front man and lead singer.

Performances

The finals of Miss Universe 2013 will witness an exclusive musical performance by Grammy-nominated band Panic! At The Disco and international recording artist EMIN. Steven Tyler will also take the stage for a special performance, in addition to his judging duties.

Have a look at the official teaser of the event (Video Courtesy: Youtube/OfficialMissUniverse)

Parts of the story in http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/520584/20131108/miss-universe-2013-live-where-watch.htm.

Watch out for Ariella Arida in Miss Universe 2013 , airs live on Velvet Channel

Tweet

Will Ariella Arida finally be the third Filipina to take home the Miss Universe Crown?

Stay tuned for the answer this Sunday (Nov 10) and watch history unfold as the highly anticipated "Miss Universe 2013" airs live on Velvet Channel (SkyCable Channel 53) at 2:00am, with a special telecast following on ABS-CBN at 9:00am.

Many are eager to bear witness as fate unfolds for the 24-year old from Laguna as she competes this year, especially with the close calls that took place last year for Miss Universe 2012 first runner-up Janine Tugonon.

Ariella has often been deemed a crowd favorite due to her popularity in pageant websites, where she has placed in online top 10 lists time and time again.

Looking back at the competition's progress over the years, the Philippines was last able to take home the title of "Miss Universe" in the year 1973, with Margarita "Margie" Moran earning the crown. Since then, it has been 40 years, with the country's representatives frequently coming in as first runners-up, including Miriam Quiambao in 1991 and Janine in 2012.

This year, the various competitors' success lies in the hands of the 2013 panel of judges, composed of Aerosmith lead vocalist Steven Tyler, famous chef Chef Nobu, gold medal figure skater Tara Lipinski, model-actress Carol Alt, supermodel Anne V, Farouk Systems founder Farouk Shami, U-BOAT watches pioneering designer Italo Fontana, and Russian popstar Philip Kirkorov.

The Miss Universe 2013 coronation night will be held at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, and will be hosted by Thomas Roberts of "MSNBC Live" and Mel B of "America's Got Talent".

Ariella in her glam shot photographed by fashion photographer Fadil Berisha in the 2014 YAMAMAY FOR MISS UNIVERSE swimwear collection accessorized with faux fur

Catch "Miss Universe 2013" as it airs live on Velvet Channel (SkyCable Channel 53) at 2:00am, with a special telecast on ABS-CBN at 9:00am.

Footage of the coronation night will also have a primetime replay on the same day, airing at 7:00pm on Velvet Channel and 10:45am on ABS-CBN.

Megan Young wins as the Grand Top Model for Miss World 2013

Tweet

Miss World Philippines Megan Young won! Our very own beauty celebrity Megan Young is the grand winner in Top Models during the competition held last night at the Bali International Convention Center in Indonesia.

She is  #TopModelWINNER, #BeachFashion5thPlacer & #Multimedia4thPlacer for Miss World 2013.

Top Model

WINNER - PHILIPPINES - MEGAN YOUNG

2nd - UNITED STATES - Olivia Jordan

3rd - FRANCE - Marine Lorphelin

4th - UKRAINE - Anna Zaiachkivska

5th - BRAZIL - Sancler Frantz

Sports

WINNER - NETHERLANDS - JACQUELINE STEENBEEK

2nd - SPAIN - Elena Ibarbia Jimenez

3rd - NORTHERN IRELAND - Meagan Green

4th - PARAGUAY - Coral Ruiz

5th - EL SALVADOR - Paola Ayala

Beach Fashion

WINNER - BRAZIL - SANCLER FRANTZ

2nd - FRANCE - Marine Lorphelin

3rd - GHANA - Naa Okailey Shooter

4th - JAMAICA - Gina Hargitay

5th - PHILIPPINES - Megan Young

Multimedia

WINNER - INDIA - NAVNEET DHILLON

2nd - THAILAND - Kanyaphak Phokesomboon

3rd - NEPAL - Ishani Shrestha

4th - PHILIPPINES - Megan Young

5th - MALAYSIA - Melinder Bhullar

Beauty with a Purpose

WINNER - NEPAL - ISHANI SHRESTHA

2nd - AUSTRALIA - Erin Holland

3rd - TANZANIA - Brigitte Lyimo

4th - BELGIUM - Noémie Happart

5th - BRAZIL - Sancler Frantz

6th - FRANCE - Marine Lorphelin

7th - GHANA - Naa Okailer Shooter

8th - ENGLAND - Kirsty Heslewood

9th - INDIA - Navneet Dhillon

10th - ARUBA - Larissa Leeuwe

Congratulations to all of our winners!

Photos: Beauty Pageant Grand Slam Facebook, Miss World 2013 Page Ranking

Visit Sources: Facebook , Yahoo, and www.PageantRankings.com for more details and updates!

Miss Philippines takes first runner-up, Miss USA wins Miss Universe 2012

Tweet

Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon was named first runner-up of Miss Universe 2012  held Wednesday (Thursday in the Philippines) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Out of the 89 candidates around the world, 20-year-old cellist Miss USA Olivia Culpo took the crown as this year’s Miss Universe during the coronation night.

Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon, the only Asian candidate who made it to the Top 10. The Philippines nearly had another Miss Universe. Miss Philippines Janine Mari Tugonon came close to breaking the country's decades-long drought for a Miss Universe title when she placed second in this year's pageant. It was the closest that the country has come to the crown since Miriam Quiambao's first runner-up finish in 1999. The Philippines has won the crown twice, with Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973.

Janine answered fashion photographer judge Nigel Barker's question during the Q & A portion.

"As a global ambassador, do you think speaking English should be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe?"

“For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language. It’s being able to influence and inspire other people. So whatever language you have, as long as your heart is to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”

Other winners are : 

Miss Venezuela Irene Sofia Esser Quintero  -  second runner-up

Miss Australia Renae Ayris                           -  third runner-up

Miss Brazil Gabriela Markus                         - fourth runner-up

Janine said that she was happy with her second-place finish that she was fortunate to be picked as one of the best among 89 women from different parts of the world.

Janine was born and raised in Balanga, Bataan. She is a BS Pharmacy Cum Laude from UST (with cum laude honors). She has trained in Ballet Manila. She was last year’s Bb. Pilipinas first runner up. Before that, she was also Ms. Pharmacy and Ms. UST — both in 2010. She loves the outdoors and enjoys an active lifestyle. She likes to go hiking and climbing mountains, as well as cooking and traveling. She also loves reading crime related books and watching crime suspense thrillers such as CSI, Criminal Minds and Fringe.