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In the world of beauty pageants where swimsuit competitions are a must, a new contender has emerged with the aim to offer a refreshing perspective.
The Miss Philippines, a new pageant created by the same team behind Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh), aims to empower women to become ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
By redirecting the focus from traditional pageant elements, The Miss Philippines endeavors to celebrate the nation's arts, crafts, and legacy on a global stage.
The Miss Philippines held a soft launch during its “Culture and Heritage Celebration” — which also happens to be their tagline — at the Enderun Coworking in Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons in Pasig City last week.
Hosted by Miss Charm first runner-up Annabelle McDonnel and Miss Universe Philippines 2023 second runner-up Angelique Manto, the event gave guests glimpse of the national costumes of the candidates from the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 as well as arts and crafts from different local brands.
Also in attendance were reigning Miss Supranational Philippines 2023 Pauline Cucharo Amelinckx and Miss Charm Philippines 2024 Krishnah Gravidez, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 first runner-up CJ Opiaza, Miss Universe Philippines National Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee, Miss Universe Philippines Creative Director Jonas Gaffud and some of the winners of the inaugural edition of Mister Pilipinas Worldwide.
While details about the qualifications for future contestants such as age range and marital status are yet to be unveiled, organizers of The Miss Philippines aim to formalize the process and commence the comprehensive screening in August.
What is sure, however, is that the new pageant will break away from the traditional practices. In one of the most ground-breaking moves ever, The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration will not have a swimsuit segment during the finals. In its place, there will be a Swimsuit Fashion Photoshoot where their attire will be framed by the country's world-beaches and resorts, and the emphasis is on fitness and athleticism.
“In terms of the pageant scene and in terms of the pageant innovation, there really is so much more to pageantry than just the swimsuit portion. “There will be a swimsuit photoshoot that will still show the beautiful landscapes of the Philippines as part of the celebration or coronation itself,” clarified Miss Supranational Philippines Pauline Amelinckx in the event.
There will also be more emphasis on the delegates' charm, wit and communication skills in Question-and-Answer segments and with delegates given more speaking opportunities.
“The Filipina isn't only known for her beauty — she is also respected for her intellect, bravery and fitness,” The Miss Philippines said in a statement.
Since everyone loves glamorous and extravagant shows, The Miss Philippines will highlight fashion that is proudly Filipino.
“Part of how we will celebrate the culture and heritage of the Philippines is by tapping into the richness of arts — Filipino fashion, Filipino talents, Filipino music, Filipino dance in jaw-dropping, sure-to-be-much-applauded Fashion Shows,” they said.
On the other hand, the delegates of The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration will not be the only ones at the center of the festivities. In a game-changing move, they will also pay tribute to the Filipino workers.
“This is for those whose hands build beautiful things and whose brilliance is reflected in everything they do. This is not just for the Philippines but for the Filipino. Because The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration recognizes Filipino beauty in all forms and deeds,” they added.
The Miss Philippines clarifies that there will be only one national title holder, and the winner will have the opportunity to choose between the two international pageants — Miss Supranational and Miss Charm — to represent the country.
This allows the runner-up to participate in the remaining international pageant.
Previously, the Miss Universe Philippines held the country's franchises to Miss Supranational and Miss Charm pageants. However, Miss Universe Organization's new owner Anne Jakrajutatip strictly ordered that only one winner would be crowned during local pageants so that the focus will be on the main title. Failure to adhere to this directive could result in franchise revocation.
This was the explanation why during the recent Miss Universe Philippines finals in May, the Miss Supranational Philippines and Miss Charm Philippines titles were awarded separately, without TV coverage.
In the end, The Miss Philippines encourages women from all corners of the Philippines to participate, ideally with the support of their respective local government units. This inclusive approach ensures that the diverse beauty and talent of the country are represented.
“It's not just the typical pageant wherein candidates will just showcase their ramp skills, wit and charm. It's more about highlighting culture and the arts — the country's heritage. There are a lot of undiscovered arts and crafts all over the country. This pageant has the capacity to highlight and show it to the whole universe,” Miss Charm Philippines Krishna Gravidez finally noted.
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Credit belongs to : www.manilatimes.net
