FOR the first time ever, Binibining Pilipinas, now on its 57th year, staged its talent competition at the New Frontier Theater last February 14 where 20 of the 40 contestants showcased their singing, dancing and other artistic skills in a show that also included a mini fashion show featuring JAG Jeans and World Balance.
Hosted by reigning Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental Emma Tiglao and Prince de Guzman, the show also featured the contestants wearing red cocktail dresses as they were serenaded by actor-singer Markki Stroem.
Despite a slip on the floor, Binibini No. 14 Hazel Joy Ortiz of Pasig was a standout as she danced the pasa doble with so much grace and fiery passion.
Binibining Pilipinas third-timers Vickie Rushton and Samantha Bernardo, meanwhile, were stunning during the red gala segment.
Part of the proceeds of the show went to the Philippine Red Cross.
The reigning queens were among the judges for talent, with the winner to be announced during the finals at the Big Dome on April 26.
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Mutia ti La Union 2020, arguably the grandest beauty pageant in northern Philippines, held its press presentation recently at the Provincial Capitol in San Fernando, La Union with no less than Gov. Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” R. Ortega III and other provincial officials attending the event that is being staged as one of the highlights of the celebrations for the 170th year of La Union as a province of agri tourism, progress and economic development.
During the event, Victoria Tavas of Santo Tomas was voted as Darling of the Press from the bevy of 20 contestants.
The finals, to be hosted by Billy Crawford, Venus Raj and Robi Domingo, and with a celebrity panel of judges including Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, actors Dimples Romana and Marco Gumabao and renowned designer Rocky Gathercole, will be held at Poro Point Baywalk in San Fernando on March 2.
Mutia ti La Union 2020 is presented by La Union Provincial Tourism Office headed by Adamor L. Dagang.
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Best of luck to the 36 delegates from all over the world vying for the 20th Manhunt International that will be staged at the New Frontier Theater tomorrow night.
The Philippines is hosting the international modeling tilt for men for the second time; it first hosted the long-running pageant at the PICC in 1999.
Among the touted frontrunners to take the title currently held by Spain’s Vicent Llorach are: Nikos Antonopolous, an archeologist from Greece; Matheus Giora, a physical therapist from Brazil; and our very own Daumier Corilla, an aspiring actor from Las Piñas, who is also gunning for our second Manhunt International title after June Macasaet, who won in 2012.
