SHAMCEY Supsup, the Philippines’ representative to the recent Miss Universe pageant, heralded a strong message of empowerment to Filipinas, when she placed third runner-up.
On November 6, two more Filipinas echoed her achievement when Philippines was once again distinguished as one of the best in the glittering world of pageantry. Looks like the country is on a winning streak as far beauty pageants is concerned.
Diane Necio, the country’s bet to Miss International held in Chengdu, China, finished as one of the 15 semi-finalists and won the People’s Choice Award.
The 19-year-old lass from Bicol continued the country’s semi-final streak in the pageant that started in 2008.
Meanwhile, Gwendolyn Ruias was named first princess and Continental Queen of Asia & Pacific — besting out more than 100 delegates in Miss World 2011 in London, United Kingdom.
The 5’11 stunner from Muntinlupa City gave the country its second highest achievement in the world’s oldest beauty contest, duplicating Evangeline Pascual’s runner-up finish in 1973.
They may have failed to snatch the respective crowns of the beauty pageants they competed in, but these Filipinas gave their countrymen more cause for celebration. Their back-to-back achievements did not only bring fame — it also brought them and the country honor.
Paris of Troy was probably the first man who had the pleasure of choosing the most beautiful woman, but his choice was limited to three.
Today, the competition is tougher. Pushing through the boundaries of the word “beauty” is almost a necessity.
Standing out from a sizable bevy of global beauties is not an easy task.
These two Pinay beauties had to go through scrutiny on every aspect of what makes the Filipino woman. They displayed their intellect, cultural values, traditions, sense of poise and sense of being.
They not only epitomize what the world considers beautiful, they also represented the beauty of our country.
A Filipina to be recognized as one of the most beautiful women in the planet guarantees the Philippines a second look from international spectators on what the country has to offer.
2011 was a good year for the Philipppines and our queens have proven that.
To most people, gaining a beauty title gives a promise of a glamorous lifestyle, but privileges from these recognitions also come with huge responsibilities.
Pageants are more than just a parade of beautiful women. Behind these women is a platform, a cause that they promote through their titles and participation.
For many young Filipinas, the opportunity to bring awareness to issues and causes close to their hearts is the motivation behind competing.
More than representing beauty of a Filipina by being gorgeous, smart, respectful, and respectable, these successful Filipina queens act as ambassadors promoting the country and its splendor.
Behind all the glitz and glam are these remarkable modern heroines, who grabbed the opportunity to endorse (on a worldwide scale), not only the country’s attractions, but also the warmth and all-encompassing nature of Filipinos.
As they paraded wearing the Philippine sash, Gwen and Diane managed to preach about the beauty of the country they are representing. Their triumphant stint on the prestigious beauty pageants enhanced the Filipino heritage and uplifted our national pride.
(www.asianjournal.com)
(LA Midweek Nov 9-11. 2011 Sec A pg. 6)
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