Norma Beatriz Nolan, Miss Universe 1962 and Argentina’s first — and only — Miss Universe titleholder, passed away on August 21, 2025, at the age of 87. Born in Venado Tuerto, Santa Fe, Norma made history when she was crowned Miss Universe in Miami Beach in 1962. Her victory remains a proud moment in Argentina’s history. After her reign, she chose a quiet life away from the spotlight, remembered always for her elegance, humility, and dignity. Her legacy as a trailblazer and a symbol of Argentine pride will continue to inspire generations.
🌹 Rest in peace, Norma Nolan (1938–2025).
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Joy Mayanne Barcoma of Bacoor crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2025—and now she will represent the Philippines at Miss Earth 2025 under the powerful ‘Silver Lining’ advocacy! As an LGU consultant championing community disaster resiliency and environmental protection, Joy’s win marks a milestone in the pageant’s 25th-anniversary edition. Congratulations, Bacoor’s very own!
Video courtesy of Miss Philippines Earth
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The Miss Universe Dominican Republic 2025 results shocked pageant fans worldwide! Jennifer Ventura, representing Barahona, was crowned the new queen, defeating heavy favorite Jearmanda Ramos — Miss Grand Dominican Republic 2022 and Top 20 finalist at Miss Grand International 2022. Jennifer Ventura is a civil engineer with an international master’s degree, passionate about community transformation. While her victory is celebrated by many, it has also sparked online discussions and unverified rumors about her father’s influence in the competition. What do you think about Jennifer’s win? Is she the right choice to represent the Dominican Republic at Miss Universe 2025?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
Video credits: Color Visión Canal 9
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History is made! 🇵🇸✨ Nadeen Ayoub has been crowned the very first Miss Universe Palestine and will compete in Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand later this year. Nadeen says this is more than a beauty pageant — it’s a platform to speak up for the people of Palestine. Through her initiative, Sayidat Falasteen (Lady of Palestine), she shares stories of strength, creativity, and hope from her homeland.
This isn’t her first big win — in 2022, Nadeen made history at Miss Earth when she was crowned Miss Earth Water, representing Palestine. Now, she’s set to shine on one of the biggest stages in the world. 💬 What do you think of Nadeen representing Palestine at Miss Universe? Let us know in the comments! 👍
Like this video, hit Subscribe, and turn on notifications for more pageant updates, inspiring stories, and global news. Media Credits: Nadeen Ayoub, Miss Earth Organization.
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Puerto Rico crowns its new queen! 👑 Zashely Nicole Alicea Rivera, representing Dorado, is Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2025. A professional ballet dancer and psychology graduate, she wowed the judges with her elegance, winning Total Look and Best Catwalk. She will represent Puerto Rico at Miss Universe 2025 this November in Thailand. Can she bring home the island’s 6th crown?
💫 Video credits: ig / Miss Universe
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Shocking news from Miss Universe Australia 2025! Fan favorite Sheridan Mortlock, a former Miss Earth Air 2022 and known for her Taylor Swift resemblance, has gone unplaced in this year’s competition. Despite her experience, stage presence, and heavy fan support, Sheridan did not make the Top 10 — leaving pageant fans stunned. The Miss Universe Australia 2025 competition continues, but Sheridan’s unexpected exit has already become one of the most talked-about moments. Will this be the end of her pageant journey, or the start of something new?
📅 Miss Universe 2025 will be held this November in Thailand — who will represent Australia?
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Sultan Kudarat played host to the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 National Costume Competition last Sunday—and it was a spectacle that surpassed all expectations. The province orchestrated a show that could easily rival, if not overshadow, any national finals. From the exquisite stage design and lighting to the flawless execution of the program, every detail was meticulously curated. The charismatic hosts—Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel and actor Marco Gumabao—added an extra layer of charm, but the true stars of the evening were the contestants themselves. They graced the stage in stunning national costumes inspired by the theme of flora and fauna. Their performances elevated the event to unprecedented heights, securing its place as one of the most memorable moments of the entire competition.
Three contestants emerged as winners of the Best National Costume award. Among them was the beloved fan favorite, Alexie Brooks of Iloilo, whose captivating and uniquely crafted “Ugto-Ugto” costume mesmerized the live audience. Joining her were Jet Hammond, representing the Filipino Community of Southern California, who wore an incredible Tubbataha Reef–inspired costume; and Tamara Ocier from Tacloban, adorned in a stunning ensemble portraying the goddess of the sun embraced by the Tacloban monitor lizard, also known as “Halo.” In recognition of their outstanding performances and artistic interpretations, each winner received a ₱100,000 cash prize.
Now, let me present my personal top 10 favorites from the event—those who I believe truly embraced the theme and showcased phenomenal costumes that highlighted the rich flora and fauna of the Philippines.
Victoria Velasquez Vincent – Bacoor Designer: Axel Que This Gamu-gamo or moth’s inspired costume embodies exquisite craftsmanship, reminiscent of editorial fashion with a touch of Alexander McQueen’s aesthetic. The addition of the ala-Pat McGrath Makeup look from Maison Margiela in this picture elevates the costume to new heights. It’s unfortunate that Victoria didn’t have the same makeup during the presentation. Nevertheless, it remains an absolute beauty!
This costume is truly one for the books! It’s well-crafted, incredibly unique, and Alexie’s presentation was simply perfection. Designer Tata Blas-Pinuela truly grasped the assignment, and the result speaks volumes. Bravo!
Phoebe Arriana Torita – Kananga Designer: John Hubert Capito
This Ylang Ylang-inspired masterpiece is simply incredible! The stained glass effect beautifully captures the essence of Kananga, named after this fragrant and beautiful flora. Its intricate design and vibrant colors truly evoke the allure and charm of the Ylang Ylang flower. An exquisite tribute to nature’s beauty!
Angel Rose Tambal – Leyte Designer: Er Stephen Alvarado
This national costume represents the iterative evolution of the ‘Tikling Birds,’ and it is simply enigmatic! I am captivated by the concept behind it. Moreover, its incorporation of gold elements exudes queen of Egypt vibes, adding a touch of regal elegance. Despite this international flair, it remains distinctly Filipino, showcasing a fusion of cultural influences that could compete on a global stage with ease.
Now, this Pawikan costume is perhaps the most unique and standout amidst a sea of glittering costumes. Naic’s designer demonstrates a keen sense of proportion, meticulous attention to detail in translating the Pawikan into a costume, and the result is nothing short of perfection! This collaboration is truly top-notch, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity behind the creation of this stunning ensemble.
Zoleil Mellane Taño – Occidental Mindoro Designer: Michael Jayzon Dela Cruz
The Tamaraw-inspired costume is stunning both in pictures and up close; the attention to detail is simply impeccable! While the presentation could have been improved, considering the circumstances — I’ve learned from the designer that the day of the event was the first time Zoleil wore the Tamaraw shoes — kudos to her for pulling it off!
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
Tamara Ocier – Tacloban Designer: Charlotte Rodriguez
I have to agree with the judges; this costume is simply stunning and truly unique! The representation of the region and the intricate details of the costume are absolutely exquisite. And that addition of the monitor lizard? It’s perfection! The ensemble beautifully captures the essence of the region, making it a standout piece in the competition
Although this costume may not have garnered as much attention on social media, it remains one of the most visually striking ensembles, particularly in terms of its intricate details. Inspired by Awihao, the first tree to grow in Toledo, and complemented by the addition of a sunbird, this look is undeniably incredible!
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
Jet Hammond – Southern California Designer: Ehrran Montoya
The designer drew inspiration from the Tubbataha Reef, a vibrant ecosystem that stands as a living tribute to the marine treasures of the Philippines. And indeed, this ensemble is sheer perfection! From the captivating colors and luxurious fabrics to the ingenious concept and flawless execution, Jet Hammond not only maximizes the costume’s stunning aesthetic appeal but also wears it with unparalleled class and elegance. My goodness, this is undoubtedly one of the most aesthetically beautiful costumes I’ve seen in all my years covering pageants. Ehrran Montoya is a genius!
Christina Chalk – United Kingdom Designer: Daniel Guarino and Jessie Catienza
This costume beautifully showcases the Filipino and British heritage of Christina Chalk, and the collaboration between two designers has resulted in something truly impeccable! The intricate details are a visual delight, while the headpiece exudes a regal elegance reminiscent of Queen Amidala. The incorporation of various elements reflects Chalk’s mixed heritage, adding depth and richness to the overall design.
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
It was challenging for me to narrow down my choices to just 10, given the abundance of costumes that authentically represent the beauty of the flora and fauna in our country. This event undoubtedly solidifies the Philippines’ position as one of the countries with the most diverse and stunning ecosystems, while also showcasing Filipino designers as some of the most talented in the world!
Which national costumes stood out to you as favorites?
Don’t miss the coronation night of the national pageant, scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena. The event will be hosted by Filipino-American Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel.
The High Council of Sorcery has come to Boston, and they are after Angel, accusing him of many violations of practitioners law. Everyone he cares about seems to be in danger, but Angel’s isn’t about to give up without a fight.
This, by far, is the most intense book in the series. There is a lot of magic and discoveries and new characters. And these characters that we’ve come to love from the last two books are all here, vibrant as ever. They all have excellent character development, which I thought is the aspect where the author excels the most. She loves her characters that we also love. My particular favorite is Daniel’s adorable sibling relationship with Isaac. I loved that they both are healing each other in a way from their traumatic experiences.
Angel and Simeon’s relationship is stronger than ever. Being bonded, it is so lovely that we still get the same banter, and their chemistry is still as amazing as ever. I just love this series so much.
This awesome third book also paved the way for the new couples—Isaac and Batiste and Daniel and Rory— that we’d get to read in subsequent sequels (given that I’ve read the books already lol, and they’re frigging amazing.)
I don’t think I’d have to say more about this third installment. You’d have to read the first book and enjoy the succeeding stories up to this point. I’m just writing this to praise the author’s writing because she absolutely smashed it again.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars Kindle Edition, 304 pages Published May 28th 2018 by SJ Himes
About the Author
LOVE SPRINGS ETERNAL releases August 31st 2021.
I will be moving all my titles over the course of 2022 to my new author name, Sheena Jolie.
If you have questions for me, and want an answer sooner rather than later, find me on Facebook or Twitter. Social media links on my website, along with a FAQs page for the most common questions I get asked.
Current writing cluster titles are available on my Works in Progress page at my website. http://www.sjhimes.com
I also write as Revella Hawthorne. I write mainly gay romance and erotica, but I am branching out into polyamorous groupings and LGBT+ characters.
Saving Silas is my only contemporary. Everything else is paranormal, urban fantasy, or scifi/alternate universe.
I’m a nomad–I move a lot. My health is sporadic, so when I’m feeling well enough is when I’m writing. Which is good, as otherwise, I think my suffering translates to boring stories.
I’ve learned the hard way that I can’t do release dates until a book is 100% DONE. No projected dates anymore. For up to date and accurate information, find me on Facebook and Twitter. I RARELY come to GR. It’ll be months before I’m back again.
Any books I have reviewed are my own opinions and done so without malice. I won’t review a book anymore if I can’t give it 3 stars or higher. Most of my reviews are based upon how a book makes me FEEL. Entirely subjective and personal. Exceptions are in cases of plagiarism and intellectual property theft or a massively horrible formatting job or erroneous content (ie the title and blurb don’t match the interior.)
***
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I absolutely loved this edition of Binibining Pilipinas and it may actually be the one of the best editions for me. What’s freaking insane is that it is the first time it was actually televised in real-time! And with no live audience too well…because Covid. Ahem. So, I have to talk about a few things this edition has offered us.
The Binibining Pilipinas 2021 was supposed to be the year 2020 edition but due to the pandemic, it was moved a year later which is the very first time the pageant was not held since it’s inception in 1964. However, Samantha Mae Bernardo, Binibining Pilipinas 2019 Second Runner-up and was a contestant of the supposed 2020th edition was appointed the Philippines’ representative to the 2020-2021 Miss Grand International earlier this year making her the only title holder to wear a 2020th sash! So many fun facts!
Another first for this edition is its all-female hosts with two former Binibining Pilipinas queens – Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and 2016 Binibining Pilipinas Grand International and 2016 Miss Grand International First Runner-up, Nicole Cordoves. Catriona and Nicole not only made a Binibini history last night, they also did an incredible job that it’s hard to imagine them not doing this every single year moving forward!
The Stage: It looks amazing! It was simple and classy looking with its three gigantic led screens! Easier
The Opening: Donning yellow, orange and lime-green cocktails dresses, the girls dances a to a new Binibining Pilipinas song! It was catchy and they all looked absolutely amazing! The introduction was a sight to behold too, showing each Bibibini in their respective National Costumes! It was marvelous! The costumes are simply to die for! Why are we not seeing these kind of costumes in the international level though? Hmmm…
The board of judges are also a batch of impressive panel that includes Rajo Laurel, Maria Garcia, Dioceldo Sy, Benito Bengzon Jr, Pinky Webb, Enrique Gil, Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza and the ever-so-beautiful actress Liza Soberano! Can I just say that Liza looked like a goddess last night!
First two set of awards:
Best in National Costume: Nueva Ecija, Marian Ruth Erika Quin
Miss Friendship: Tagum City, Lesley Anne Ticaro Miss Talent: Bocaue, Bulacan, Vianca Louise Marcelo Miss Photogenic: Manila, Patrizia Mariah Garcia Miss Alagang Silka: Angeles, Pampanga, Ma. Francesca Taruc Jag Denim Queen: Masbate, Hannah Arnold Miss World Balance: Olongapo, Alexandra Faith Garcia Miss Ever Bilena: Batangas, Maureen Montagne Miss Piza Hut: Iloilo, Karen Laurrie Mendoza Manila Bulleting Readers Choice Award: Batangas, Mica Rosal
Last batch and some major awards:
Bb. Araneta City: Angeles, Pampanga, Maria Francesca Taruc Miss Creamsilk: Batangas, Maureen Montagne
Best in Swimsuit: Valenzeula, Meiji Cruz
Best in Long Gown: Eastern Samar, Gabrielle Basiano
The proceedings was fast! The top 12 were announced right away plus a Top 13th people’s choice voted via the Binibining Pilipinas app, and they paraded in Swimsuit and their beautiful Evening gown! It was such a glorious sight!
My favorites for the swimsuit round are: Maureen Montagne, Hannah Arnold and Meiji Cruz.
As for the Evening Gown, it was obviously Gabrielle Basiano with that presentation that totally nailed the round! Another one of my favorite for this round is Hannah Arnold with her baby pink gown ensemble and Graciella Lehman with her effortless pasarela!
As each finalists is called into the top 12/13, she will deliver a short message about her pandemic experience (this is almost similar to the opening speech in the Miss Universe during its 2018 and 2019 edition)
Here are my on the spot notes last night for each finalists!
Eastern Samar, Gabrielle Basiano – too short, prolly got nervous but very beautiful face.
Manila, Patrizia Mariah Garcia – reminds me of Aya Abesamis. Very simple message. Challenging governance…
Iloilo, Karen Laurrie Mendoza – Loved her accent! talks about mental illness is not a sign of weakness, you are heard, you matter – a really thoughtful and relevant message.
Oriental Mindoro, Graciella Lehman – talked about being a cabin crew and to be in the service of fellow Filipinos.
Angeles Pampanga, Francesca Taruc – to be more grateful and appreciate little things in life. Quick. Message was okayish.
Valenzuela, Meiji Cruz (Cat said Venezuela – a cute mistake) – loved her Pinoy accent, very good message. Unity, compassion together we can heal!
Albay, Jashmin Dimaculangan – very on point message!!! talks about Typhoon Ulysses during the pandemic
Cavite, Samantha Panlilio – very good communication skills, her family are from the tourism industry and how in perseverance we can survive this pandemic.
Quezon Province, Patricia Babista – being a frontliner, aims to face a new world with a healthier, braver and kinder human
Rizal Province, Honey Cartasano – loved her styling! regain her purpose thru volunteering in helping her kababayan!
Masbate, Hannah Arnold – As a forensic science graduate she wanted the country to invest on science and prevent another pandemic. Very good.
Batangas, Maureen Montagne – I witness firsthand the true beauty and strength of community. Siargao community pantry, together we can overcome any obstacle. Lovely messaging too! People’s Choice / Fan Vote
Cagayan de Oro – Misamis Oriental – Cinderella Fae Obeñita very good messaging! With her personality, I wonder why she missed the first cut in the first place…
Another segment is an interview with Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago who’s battling a end-stage renal failure and she delivered a lovely message of hope to the girls and to us viewers! Get well soon, Bea!
Can I just talk about how amazing the Evening Gown presentation was? I mean, that’s international level of production! Each girl in the top 13 talks about their chosen gown and the symbolism it represents! So powerful!
Moving on to the ‘dreaded’ Q&A, it’s obvious that a lot of girls were nervous. Overall, I thought they all gave amazing answers! It just boils down to presentation and how confident they are with their answers!
The one that top this segment is surprisingly Miss Cagayan de Oro – Misamis Oriental Cinderella Fae Obeñita. She just sealed her win with that answer!
Winners!
Second Runner-up: Meiji Cruz, Valenzuela
I loved Meiji. She’s such a stunner but I didn’t expect her to place this high after the Q&A but overall, she’s probably in the upper tier of the scoreboard to nab this title.
First Runner-up: Gabrielle Basian, Borongan Eastern Samar
Her Q&A wasn’t that bad. I thought she gave an apt answer to the question even though she faltered a bit. It’s obvious that her performance there affected her overall placement. I thought she’d get one of the major titles if I’m being honest pegging her to win the Bb. Pilipinas-Intercontinental title.
Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2021: Maureen Montagne, Batangas
I really thought that Maureen would either win the International or the Grand International title so I was very surprised that she got Globe! It’s still a crown after all and she very much deserved a crown, regardless of the title! She was unstoppable last night!
Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2021: Cinderella Fae Obeñita, Miss Cagayan de Oro – Misamis Oriental
As I’ve mentioned above, her gift of gab is her major strength that none of the girls probably expected! She was such a revelation and she should thank her lucky stars that she won the fan vote! Tonight was her destiny fulfilled!
Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2021: Samantha Panlilio, Cavite
Samantha is definitely one of the best speakers in this batch and I was also on the lookout for her during the first few months of the competition but that excitement died down as the other girls started to peaked so I was very much surprised that she was named to follow suit Samantha Bernardo in Miss Grand International. Samantha reminded me of the Binibining Pilipinas-Universe prototypes of the early 2000’s. I’m excited to see her transformation on her quest to win the first ‘golden crown’ for the Philippines.
Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 – Hannah Arnold, Masbate
Binibining Pilipinas International 2021: With the Miss Universe pageant no longer affiliated with Binibini, Miss International takes center stage as the premier crown for the most prestigious pageant in the country! Hannah Arnold rightfully and deservedly won this major crown last night with her flawless performance emulating a doll and humble demeanor which the Japanese couldn’t seem to resist! She’d definitely do well in Japan later this year!
Overall, I am just in awe of the level of production, the girls, the hosts, the judges – they just set a new standard on how to stage a pageant in the new normal!
Congratulations, Binibining Pilipinas!
Watch the full show of the Binibining Pilipinas 2021 Grand Coronation Night on their official Youtube Channel.
There are so many groundbreaking things that happened this year within our community but since I am also a big fan of beauty pageants, I thought I should share the history-making feat of Kataluna Enriquez – the first transwoman to win the Miss Nevada title, and is set to represent the state in the Miss USA pageant later this year.
If she wins the Miss USA title in November, she will become the second transgender woman to participate in the Miss Universe beauty pageant after Spain’s Angela Ponce competed in 2018. Way to go sis!!! Congratulations!
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