Facially, I think that Ariella’s the strongest amongst the winners of this year’s Binibining Pilipinas Gold because she’s not too “pretty” and she has that good quality of being able to change her look with just minimal help (make up, photoshop and all.) That being said, our girl still need to work it out to find her right styling and learn her angles to be able to stand out in the bevy of international beauties come Miss Universe finals night on November 9 in Moscow, Russia.
Nicolo Cosme (credits to the owner)
Ara had her send-off yesterday at the Araneta Center and she did not disappoint. Our girl is finally in it to win it! She know she had such a big task to accomplish in Moscow and I’m glad she’s goin’ there in full gear – what she need now is a big HEART to win it all and ofcourse our prayers for her to capture the elusive third Miss Universe crown!
Wow! I just saw the picture below posted by his handler Jonas Gaffud on instagram and I am officially sold by our girl Ara! Her styling was just perfect! She’s got the right body (not voluptuous – more like Jesinta Campbell – Miss Australia 2010 and Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes) and man’ she’s so rocking it!
Ara during her send off party today
Doesn’t she look ravishing? She actually kinda reminds me of Hannah Sison here (a 2013 BBP Gold contestant.) I think she’s gonna wow everyone in Russia! Go Ara you can do it!
October signaled the start of the Miss Universe season where one lucky lady will be crown the most beautiful woman in the Universe at the beautiful city of Moscow, Russia come November 9. A few days from now, delegates from all over the world will be arriving in Moscow hoping to succeed the title and crown of reigning queen, Olivia Culpo of the United States. As I’m typing this, a lot of hot picks have been created at forums, blogs and pageant sites alike and yours truly also came up with my first hot picks – choosing my top 15 favorites pre-arrival and analyzing the lady who’s most likely to win it. Here are my top15 ladies and gents…
my first hot picks for Top15
1. PUERTO RICO – MONIC PEREZ
My numero uno for the crown at this stage goes to Monic Perez of Puerto Rico. After the heartbreaking non-placement of Bodine last year (whom I predicted to win last year-ouch!) – they are now back with a vengeance crowning this alluring latin goddess to compete with the best in Russia. Last year, Bodine may have been hyped to death with a disappointing outcome but with or without hype for Monic – this girl cannot be ignored. Puerto Rico will bounce back big this time.
2.Ukraine – Olga Strozhenko
Olga’s ethereal beauty may just be the biggest threat to anyone trying to win the crown – Monic included. ‘Girl is almost perfect that I feel that it could also be her downfall. But hey, Ukraine has a good track record – what Olesya Stefanko failed to accomplish in 2011 could be Olga’s destiny this year.
3. Dominican Republic – Yaritza Reyes
photo by Rafael Rivas
I think it’s high time that a lady from Dominican Republic be recognized yet again and enter the semis! After Ada placing runner up to Stefania – the Dominican ladies went MIA from the last three years. This year, though, they are sending quite stunning queen who could also win it all.
my top 4 – 15
4. Russia – Elmira Abdrazakova 5. Croatia – Melita Fabecic 6. USA – Erin Brady 7. Colombia – Lucia Aldana 8. Poland – Paulina Krupinska 9. Italy – Luna Isabella Voce 10. Israel – Yityish Aynaw 11. Australia – Olivia Wells 12. Czech Republic – Gabriela Kratochvilova 13. France – Hinarani de Longeaux 14. Indonesia – Whulandary Herman 15. Venezuela – Maria Gabriela Isler
Who are on your hot picks?
Images credits to the owners. No copyright infringement intended.
Everyone is still ecstatic about Mutya Datul’s win in Belarus, and Filipino pageant fans all over the world are abuzz about the upcoming Miss World 2013, where our very own Megan Young is considered one of the front runners, possibly giving the Philippines a back-to-back international title. On the sidelines, the ever-so-watched and most beloved international beauty pageant in our country, Miss Universe (considered the most prestigious), isn’t making much noise—even our very own Miss Universe Philippines, Ariella Arida, who will be competing in Moscow in November to hopefully continue our country’s three-year Top 5 streak in the pageant, isn’t getting the hype. We all know that Ara has a very tough mission to accomplish, and at the moment, not everyone is happy about her progress. I would like to think that it’s a strategy on her part to keep a low profile prior to the pageant, but the pictures bubbling up every now and then are producing polarizing opinions from Filipinos and non-Filipino pageant fans alike.
Let’s take a moment to rewind and trace the evolution of Ara’s appearance, beginning with her first participation in a national pageant, Miss Philippines Earth 2012. Ara represented the Municipality of Alaminos, Laguna, during the 2012 edition of Miss Philippines Earth, but unfortunately, she didn’t secure a win. Nevertheless, Ara exuded a radiant freshness during her time in the competition—though her physique might not have been as toned back then, her facial beauty was already remarkable!
Why she didn’t make the cut, I honestly don’t know.
Ara looking so glorious in white!
I believe that in 2012, Ara didn’t exude the same flirty vibe she showcased during this year’s Binibining Pilipinas pageant.
Now, fast forward to this year’s Binibining Pilipinas: Ara remained somewhat under the radar during the Binibining Pilipinas Gold edition. I found myself favoring heavy favorites like Elima, De Leon, Datul, and even Apuad over her, and she didn’t even make it into any of my hot picks—which leaves me pondering. Am I perhaps biased, or simply overlooking her? I suppose it’s a bit of both. However, after witnessing her live performance at the Araneta Coliseum, Ara skyrocketed to the top of my hot picks—almost like a zero-to-hero transformation. On coronation night, she proved exceptional, and in hindsight, she may have been the most consistently outstanding contestant throughout the entire competition.
Ara wearing two variations of the Filipiniana costume
Glamshots it is!
Sporting a more toned body
Now, that is what I call non-stop perseverance from her. Despite not winning any titles or awards during the 2012 Miss Philippines Earth, she still gained valuable experience that would catapult her to the most prestigious national beauty title: Miss Universe Philippines.
Ara during the Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2013 about 3 months ago
Let’s now look at the present Ara
(NOW) Ara with Minimal make up 🙂
Ara With Her BBO Gold Sisters
Ara looking for her best look!
Here’s Ara now. Are you loving her tan?
In your opinion, is she improving, or is she undergoing a Benjamin Button transformation, where she isn’t getting any better? In my honest opinion, I believe our girl is steadily progressing. Despite the presence of numerous super-goddess delegates in this year’s Miss Universe edition, I trust the team behind her—who have nurtured Venus, Shamcey, and Janine—won’t settle for anything less. There’s something she is keeping from us; I can sense it in my bones. Let’s rally behind her and give her all the support she needs. Good luck, Ara! FOR THE PHILIPPINES!
photo via Missosology / Opmb /BbPilipinas/ Miss Philippines Earth
Alexia was the first runner-up in Reina Hispanoamericana 2012 and she was a favorite to win during the national pageant last year winning the rights to represent Bolivia in Miss Universe this year. This girl’s what a latina beauty is all about! I think she’s ready to rock Russia this November!
As of this writing, the official candidates of this year’s Binibining Pilipinas 50th edition have just been revealed as the girls went through their final screening at the Gateway Suites in Araneta Center, Cubao today. It was reported that more than 200 ladies applied for this year’s golden anniversary of the pageant but only the 50 girls are lucky enough to get the chance to win the opportunity of representing the Philippines in Miss Universe, Miss International and Miss Supranational / Miss Tourism Queen International.
These are the names of the ladies who made the 50 Official Candidates of this year’s Binibining Pilipinas!
1. Ria Rabajante
Ria Rabajante is the lovechild of Mirriam Qiuambao and Janine Tugonon – She could be the darkhorse of this competition!
2. Ma. Bencelle Bianzon
3. Zandra Flores
4. Nicole Kim Donesa
5. Maria Sofia Gloria Mustonen
6. Yvette Chantal Mildenberger
7. Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales
8. Abbygale Monderin
9. Katherine Anne Enriquez
10. Anna Carmela Aquino
11. Ana Carmina Antonio
12. Camille Carla Nazar
13. Charmaine Elima
Charmaine Elima is the reigning Miss Mandaluyong and is one of the heavy favorites as well for having that “universal” appeal – I personally would’nt mind having her as Janine’s successor.
14. Mary Rose Pujanes
15. Pia Wurtzbach
A stunning beauty is a stunning beauty. I could easily see Pia Wurtzbach clinching that Bb.Pilipinas – International title!
16. Joanna Cindy Miranda
17. Carin Adrianne Ramos
18. Christine Paula Love Bernasor
19. Hannah Ruth Sison
20. Bea Rose Santiago
The very tall and luscious Amelia Vega, Miss Universe 2003 dead-ringer Bea Rose Santiago…Will she have the chance to step on the same stage where Amelia won the first Miss Universe title for her country?
Anna Fernandina Buquid is one of the heavy favorites at the moment for her towering height!
27. Vania Valiry Vispo
28. Mercegrace Raquel
29. Pauline Quintas
30. Maria Theresa Gorgonio
31. Maria Angelica De Leon
Maria Angelica de Leon got her bloodline from her celebrity parents – Christopher De Leon and Sandy Andolong. Would she be able to make it with her own merit? I think the girl’s got tons of potential!
32. Cindy Abundabar
33. Parul Shah
34. Grace Yann Apuad
35. Theresa Marie Fenger
36. Angel May Villafuerte
37. Ma. Teresita Alaine Baccay
38. Mariz Ong
39. Mutya Johanna Datul
40. Jan Helen Villanueva
41. Ariella Arida
42. Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo
43. Rhea Nakpil
44. Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom
45. Imelda Schweighart
46. Amanda Noelle Navasero
47. Aiyana Mikiewicz
48. Angeli Dione Gomez
49. Herlie Kim Artugue
50. Ma. Cristina Ann Pascual
photos courtesy of OPMB Worldwide. No copyright infringement intended.
A lot of rumors and speculations are spreading around the blogosphere about the young actress “finally” joining the 50th edition of the Binibining Pilipinas. After the first runner-up feat of Janine Tugonon from last year’s Miss Universe, Pinoy netizens and pageant fans alike are already on the lookout for the next representative who could finally win that elusive third Miss Universe crown for the Philippines.
Megan Young, a talent from ABS-CBN, is considered the best representative for the said pageant only if she decides to submit an application first and pass the screening process of the Binibining Pilipinas Organization.
Last year, she was heavily rumored “to join” the national pageant but allegedly backed out up to the last minute for unknown reasons – or maybe this would explain it.
In any case, if ever Miss Young finally decides to join the pageant, I’m pretty sure that she’ll have the utmost advantage of being a celebrity and having legions of pageant fans supporting her, including myself, so best of luck, Megan!
Janine during the Binibining Pilipinas 2012 Parade Of Beauties.
I am joining the herds of pageant fans thinking that it should’ve been Janine Tugonon, Miss Universe Philippines 2012 who should be wearing the Miss Universe Diamond Nexus crown today but the decision has been made and Miss USA – Olivia Culpo was declared the brightest star in the Universe. Olivia isn’t on my Top 16 list after the preliminary competition and I only placed her 11th on my prediction which I posted in a popular pageant site missosology. I guess, it wasn’t really the time for the Philippines to win its third Miss Universe crown – not just yet.
Here’s Janine after the 2012 Bb.Pilipinas Coronation Night and yours truly photobombing the queen! Haha (nah – didn’t get the chance to hold her then LOL)
I’ve been vocal about not being the biggest fan of Janine Tugonon ever since she joined the Binibining Pilipinas 2011 but I already accepted the fact that she’d be the one to carry the Philippine flag so I just prayed that she’ll be able to carry on the achievements of Venus Raj and Shamcey Supsup. I was proven wrong several times by this girl with her sheer determination and perseverance to prove her critics wrong and be a great representative of our country.
Today in Manila and last night in Las Vegas, Janine showed the world what a true Filipina is – beautiful, intelligent and sophisticated. I am very proud of what she have accomplished and even if she didn’t win the crown, in my heart and in the hearts of every Filipino – she is the Miss Universe 2012.
Relive Janine’s night and her incredible performance representing the 7,107 islands of the Philippines!
The National Costume Presentation of Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon at the 2012 Miss Universe Parade Of Nation. via OPMB WORLDWIDE
‘better late than never aye “) Everyone’s been raving about this Maranaw-inspired traditional costume designed by Pitoy Moreno. It’s a far fetched costume from the usual “terno” that our representatives have been wearing from the past years. I actually loved it and Janine carried it with class and elegance! Way to represent Janine!
I just finished reviewing the Miss Universe 2012 preliminary competition and I sure had a tough time grading each delegate’s performances. I came up with my top 16 (17 that is, because there’s a tie for the last spot.) My Top 16 is based solely on the telecast preliminary and does not include their interview (obviously.) Last year, I got eight over 16 and three of my choices were part of the finalists (Miss Universe 2011 – Angola, 3rd runner-up Philippines and 4th runner-up China.) I’m hoping that I’d get more this year haha. Who are your top 16?
MY TOP 16 / 17
1. Puerto Rico – Bodine Koehler
2. Venezuela – Irene Esser
3. Cayman Islands – Lindsay Japal
3.2 Philippines – Janine Tugonon
5. The Netherlands – Nathalie Den Dekker
6. Peru – Nicole Faveron
7. Czech Republic – Tereza Chlebovská
7. 2 Sri Lanka – Sabrina Herft
9. South Africa – Melinda Bam
10. El Salvador – Ana Yancy Clavel
11. Ecuador – Carolina Aguirre
12. Poland – Marcelina Zawadzka
13. Mexico – Karina Gonzalez
14. France – Marie Payet
14.1 Georgia – Tamar Shedania
14.2 Jamaica – Chantal Zaky
14.3 Thailand – Nuptimon Farida Waller
1. Puerto Rico
97.83333
2. Venezuela
95
3. Cayman Islands
94.83333
3.2 Philippines
94.83333
5. Netherlands
94.16667
6. Peru
93.66667
7. Czech Republic
93.16667
7.2 Sri Lanka
93.16667
9. South Africa
93
10. El Salvador
92.83333
11. Ecuador
92.16667
12. Poland
92
13. Mexico
91.83333
14. France
91.66667
14. 1 Georgia
91.66667
14.2 Jamaica
91.66667
14.3 Thailand
91.66667
*the 16th place will be the people’s choice garnering the most online votes worlwide.
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