Atty. Robert John I. Donesa

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Pageants Unite the Nation


There are only few events that unite a rather diverse Filipino society. The list may include: (1) an impeachment trial, (2) Pacquiao's boxing match and, (3) an international beauty pageant. People from all walks of life, young and old, stop and watch beauty pageants wherever they are and whenever they can. Though, unlike any of Pacquiao's boxing matches that free highways from heavy traffic, beauty pageants shut beauty parlors to a holiday.

As the world progressed, beauty competitions faced issues of irrelevance and women exploitation., among others. Pageant organizers eventually reaffirm the pageants' relevance by pushing for advocacy like environmentalism, women empowerment, international cooperation and beauty with a purpose. This drastically changed the face of the pageants and it became tougher and tougher as countries do not only send beautiful women, they also send those with careers, intelligence and with genuine advocacies.

The success of a candidate is also considered as an achievement of her country. One can often hear a successful candidate saying that her crown is her gift to her people. It is also uncommon to see state flags waved by the audience as their candidate is called.

Here are some of the most beautiful Filipinas who conquered the world stage.

2014 Miss Earth Jamie Herrel


2013 Miss International Bea Rose Santiago
2013 Miss World Meagan Young

Miss Earth 2008 Karla Paula Henry

2005 Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman
1979 Miss International Mimilanie Marquez
1973 Miss Universe Margarita Moran


1970 Miss International Aurora Pijuan
1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz

1964 Miss International Gemma Cruz