Michelle Dee maybe best known for her beauty queen aspirations or even her celebrity status before joining Miss World.
Yet being an advocate for children with autism is by far her most important role, she says.
“This is a lifelong advocacy and mission that I really want to help solve or at least get my message across. I have mentioned in the past that there are so many advocacies out there but I believe that my partnership with Autism Society of the Philippines and just this advocacy, in general, will really be part of my life moving forward. It’s something that I want to commit or contribute to because it is something very close to my heart.”
The daughter of former Miss International titleholder Melanie Marquez has revealed in the past that she has two siblings diagnosed with autism. She has seen the struggles they went through and it pains her to see there has not been much done in helping the plight of these people in our country in terms of availability of medical resources and representation.
And being named as the first celebrity ambassador of Autism Society of the Philippines, a non-profit organization for Filipinos who are on the autism spectrum disorder, could not have come at a better time.
“Apart from my showbiz commitments, I do plan working closely with ASP about creating rural chapters across our country. It is something I have always wanted to do. In fact, it is part of my new year’s resolution about creating a yearly event about it with ASP and continue spreading the message and positive energy around the Philippines.”
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or autism for short, is a disorder that can affect how the brain develops. It is characterized by social challenges, difficulties in communication and behavioral issues. The effects can range from slight social challenges to severe cognitive impairment according to studies abroad. And Michelle feels she has a mission to spread more awareness about it.
“The thing about being an advocate is that a lot of people go up to you and share their stories I recently have a conversation with an actor the other day where we talked about the viral videos that have been coming out about it and that’s why we also have come out with anti-bullying campaign videos as a response to it. It’s important to send that message to these people afflicted with this condition that it’s okay to be not okay.”
Michelle thinks our country has been slowly making strides in changing our perception towards this medical condition.
“The thing about being autistic is not about being a mental disability but more like a learning disability. It’s really an ongoing battle in terms of spreading that message across that being autistic is not in the same spectrum as being bipolar or being depressed. Because the latter is something that you acquire unlike being autistic which is something you are born with. I think we have come a long way from last decade where people called kids afflicted with autism different names and insults. Now, people have refrained from using those words nowadays and I think it’s a good step just to have your own self-consciousness in check in relation how to we relate to other people. I think, because of this, we have made a long way. “
Her autism awareness video she released in Miss World as part of the requirements won’t be the last endeavor she will do for this cause. You will see more of the beauty queen being proactive in the campaign trail as she leads different activities lined up by Autism Society of the Philippines for the entire year. There were the Angels Walk and benefit concert which was held in Mall of Asia Arena last weekend. There will be job fairs and livelihood programs seminar scheduled before this month ends.
At the conclusion of Binibining Cebu 2020, we find the pageant taking a stock on progress regarding diversity, inclusion and representation. For years, this topic has been presented by an industry that’s been slow to evolve on many fronts – the discussion isn’t as frequent, if it takes place at all.
But all that seems to change right now with the victory of 24 year-old Beatrice Luigi Gomez from the town of San Fernando. On January 13, Gomez became the first member of the LGBT community to ever be crowned Miss Cebu or in any pageant in the country.
During every segment of the pageant’s finals, Gomez not only mesmerized the judges with her proven preparation for each phase of the competition, but she also caught the attention of many with the relevancy of her platform : “Empowering the youth through sports development.” Being a sports enthusiast and fitness advocate, this platform made her immediately stand out as the ideal role model for her community.
Binibining Cebu is a pageant that celebrates the beauty, intelligence, community activism and performance talents of Cebuanas between the ages of 17 and 28. Contestants are judged by their level of prowess and confidence in each of the three phases of competition: interview, evening wear and physical fitness in swimwear. Gomez’s victory still stands as a distinct representation of the business case for diversity and inclusion in the world of mainstream pageantry.
For years, the world of pageants is shifting from a beauty contest filled with glitz and glam to contestants now speaking candidly about topics like race, abortion, climate change and LGBTQ rights. Although pageants certainly still have issues with diversity and inclusion, the pageant industry is becoming more reflective of what our world looks like. It all started with Half Black/Filipina April Smith, the inaugural winner of this pageant, three years ago. Beatrice Luigi Gomez helped push it a little but further this year.
Interior designer turned businessman Kenneth Cobonpue, the pageant head organizer, for all of his many contributions to our country, has really elevated the business of beauty pageants in his hometown. Because even if the pageant is only in its junior year, he still manages to come up with a lovely affair, full of some of his province’s most accomplished young women. He makes sure that no stones are unturned when it comes to his annual pageant : fun, lively and engaging. This precedent alone did not stop hosts OJ Cimafranca and Maria Gigante – who were surely feeling the pressure – from enjoying and just having fun navigating the whole proceedings.
The opening of the candidates’ montage of the Binibining Cebu pageant set the tone for the rest of the evening. After a video package celebrating the diversity of the women competing played, the Binibining Cebu’s outgoing queens and her court came out with their farewell walks as they harped on believing on the power of our million dreams in life.
But more than ever, it’s important to shed a light on these powerful 54 contestants as they made their grand entrance onstage at the Grand Ballroom of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. As they floated like air while gliding onstage, it’s nice to see one contestant by the name of Victoria Ingram of Naga City confidently rocking her big Afro hair. Dancing to the pageant’s theme song, not only did the show pay tribute to the wide range of woman on stage, but it also made a beautiful statement about the fact that Cebu is also a melting pot of races and cultures. It has to be said it made for an incredible performance as well.
As the night wore on, these contestants were trimmed to 21 down to 12 to the winning circle of five. But as the brutal cuts kept everyone on his toes, it’s worth noting how the affair has managed to make each contestant shine where it mattered the most. In the swimwear segment, these candidates were dressed in purple Mikee Andrei high cut swimsuits which showcased their fit and toned bodies onstage. The evening gown competition turned out to be a segment -with a twist. While everyone was expecting showstopping gowns of these contestants’ choice would be paraded onstage, we got a uniform figure-hugging gold gowns instead. For a while, one would thought it was a lame and boring choice for one of the most anticipated portions of the pageant. But as I carefully ponder on it as part of the selection committee in front of the stage, I finally got the wisdom behind the uniformity. The pageant organizers probably would like us, both the selection committee and the audience, to focus on the girl’s beauty of face and how she elegantly walks in it instead. That was a subliminal yet brilliant move. However, the technical execution of this idea wasn’t solid as the lighting aspect of the show could have been improved as it was predominantly dim most of the time.
The interview and final statement rounds were also as exciting as the earlier segments. It’s already a given that Cebuanas are the most articulate when it comes to expressing themselves onstage. It was just a matter of who among them confidently strung their thoughts fluidly which ultimately spelled the difference between winning and losing. Everyone was so poised and well spoken. Even the winner talked about her tattoos and personal life proudly.
The crowd exploded with excitement when the crown was eventually placed on her head. The amount of joy and satisfaction we all felt for the winner for now being a huge platform to show off not only her physicality but also her intelligence and accomplishments is really awe-inspiring.
The fact is, after the chaos of both the Australian bushfires and Taal Volcano eruption that greeted our new year, and global discussions on climate change afterwards, covering and judging Binibining Cebu felt uplifting and inspiring by contrast. Binibining Cebu thrilled, spoke a powerful message and gave us a show we did not expect. I can’t think of any other experience where I have felt that inspired while being so overly Zara-decked out from head to toe.
The last 10 years have been a truly epic and wild time at the Miss Universe pageant.
When savvy businessman Donald Trump took over Miss Universe at the tail end of the 90s, not everyone was convinced he was making the right move. But when he started making his presence felt, he made sure the Miss Universe brand was kind of synonymous to his personality: loud and fiery. Pageant fans around the world lapped up the high-octane glitz and glam factor he injected to the pageant. However, in the middle of this decade, when he ran for the U.S. presidency, he was forced to give it up. When IMG took over the reins from US President Donald Trump, the Miss Universe pageant still seemed to have bright future.
But with dwindling television ratings, toned down entertainment value and habitual last minute host country announcement, is our collective fate as pageant enthusiasts doomed? Anyhow, here are the highs and lows of the Miss Universe during this decade.
Let us start with the HIGHS
1. It is still the most exciting pageant event on television. While this decade saw a change of ownership in our beloved pageant brand resulting to a lot of dismay and confusion, the Miss Universe pageant has still remained to be a spectacle to watch year in and out. The suspense, thrill and excitement it builds up during its annual three hour telecast has been nothing but THE BOMB. From the sparkling Sheri Hill opening dresses, production set designs, swimsuits and evening gowns paraded all the way to the brutal cuts in the end make up for one highly entertaining spectacle.
2. Diversity and change of criteria
When the new millennium began, Latinas dominated this pageant resulting to eight wins highlighted by a historic back to back win by Venezuela in years 2008 and 2009. The Latinas seem to cater to Sir Donald Trump’s beauty aesthetic: a statuesque beauty who can ramp down to our heart’s content with decent communication skills. However, at the middle of this decade, the reverse has happened with non-Latina winners winning for five consecutive years now (2015-2019).
Pageant enthusiasts seem to welcome this emerging winning trend wherein beauty takes a backseat to killer communication skills and backstories. In the aftermath of the historic #METooMovement and #BlackLivesMatter making sweeping changes in the United States, this trend is likely to continue.
3. Lavish Host Country Finals Spectacle
The annual finals broadcast is always something to look forward to so we commend these countries for pulling out all stops in making sure it is a spectacle to watch and behold. European, Asian and Latin countries took turns in hosting this pageant for the past ten years and they all delivered marvellously in terms of delivering a high-dosage entertaining spectacle. To this day, the Moscow edition remains to be a very good reference of what an ideal or perfect Miss Universe finals telecast should be. The Impeccable set design, visual lighting and top-tier hosts and entertainers were all brilliant which resulted to a memorable show. Runner up to this position is the Bangkok hosting in 2018 wherein a country’s culture was evidently showcased all throughout the show. The stage design in Sao Paulo is worth highlighting as well as it did not rely too much on LED screens.
4. Thomas Roberts, Natalie Morales and Andy Cohen’s superb hosting skills
Miss Universe likes to experiment with its choice of hosts year in and out so we would like to commend them during the years it was getting it right. Thomas Roberts, Natalie Morales and Andy Cohen just possessed the right amount of liveliness in navigating the show during their respective turns. They were always so confident and comfortable in their own skin which makes us television viewers and venue audience alike feel comfortable as well. They like feeding off your energy.
5. Heartwarming Miss Spain 2018 Angela Ponce and Miss Slovenia 2015 Ana Halozan Tribute in The Finals During their time
These two may not have won the Miss Universe title but we feel they both ended up as the real winners of their respective batches. Who couldn’t forget the solo segments given to these two stunners during the finals’ telecast as we got teary-eyed seeing them bask in their own spotlight? Ana Halozan, who was unable to compete due to a seizure that got the right side of her face paralyzed, was a true dose of inspiration when she came out onstage to fulfill her dream of walking down the Miss Unvierse stage. Similarly, a huge standing ovation greeted Angela Ponce from Spain for being the first ever transgender to compete in the history of the pageant.
6. Philippines reclaims its powerhouse status, South Africa achieves a sandwich victory while France and Colombia win its first Miss Universe crown after more than 60 years.
Who would have thought that the Philippines will bounce back big time in Miss Universe this decade? After languishing for 10 years in the bottom pit last decade, the opposite has happened the moment Venus Raj showed up to the door and showed what a winning Filipina is all about. Little did Venus know that her breakout moment would result to a 10 year consecutive winning (and still unbroken-to this day) streak for her country later on. The Philippines won two crowns as a result of relentless and aggressive training and campaigning for their girls in all fronts: social and traditional media.
Similarly, South Africa, who has also been relatively doing well in Miss Universe, also peaked this decade, resulting to a three consecutive Top 2 finishes since 2017, highlighted by their victories in 2017 and 2019.
Countries like Angola, Colombia and France also made huge strides during this decade. It is worth noting both Colombia and France won again after more than 60 years in the history of the pageant.
7. Social Media is the New Battlefront
Social media and Miss Universe pageant have gone hand in hand nowadays. It has now transformed the pageant in a whole new level. Whether it is being used as a tool to bring awareness to this organization or contestant’s causes and background, it really is the type of marketing that has reached a massive number of people. Pageant fans and enthusiasts are now discerning of the candidates. So is the Miss Universe organization who is now using this platform to check out which “girl” matches its goals and vision year in and out. At the end of the day, Miss Universe is still a business venture so whoever candidate is deemed viable based on her reach and following will surely be at an advantageous position.
The Lows
1. The crowning mix up in 2015
It was the gravest pageant mistake seen around the world –or rather, the universe.
There is no doubt the 2015 edition will go down as the defining moment of the pageant when popular American TV host Steve Harvey announced the wrong winner, Ariadna Guttierrez from Colombia, at the dying moments of the show, only to find out it should have been Pia Wurtzbach from the Philippines instead.
Till this day, everyone is still on a debate whether this was really an accidental mistake or a publicity stunt which has made headlines around the world. While it still reverberates around the halls of pageantry, there can’t be no denying it was humiliating for everyone involved: the Miss Universe Organization, Steve Harvey (for not getting it right), Ariadna Gutierrez (for being publicly humiliated) and Pia Wurtzbach (for being denied her real crowning moment and first walk as Miss Universe). It was a good thing that the error has been rectified immediately.
2. Steve Harvey
When he first started hosting in 2015, he was a breath of fresh air despite bungling up the winner announcement in that edition. However, what followed for the next four years was a complete rehash and recycle of his debut in the pageant stage.
His onstage jokes and antics were old and tired much like how he kept referencing back to his infamous mistake during that edition. In addition, he kept referencing back to himself in each segment when it should be the contestants he should be highlighting all the time.
The good news is his contract with Miss Universe Organization has expired. Will the Miss Universe Organization renew his contract? Let us wait and see
3. “Fadils” were taken out
When IMG formally took over Miss Universe in 2016, one of the things that were conspiculously missing during their editions was the Fadil glamshots pageant fans have been accustomed for the past 20 years.
In the absence of glamorous and vampy ‘Fadils’ were ununiformed and half-baked shots of the girls in questionable themes. Pageant fans are very understanding that IMG is setting a different Direction and wants these girls to be seen in a different light. However, the attempt has been unsuccessful as pageant fans seem to not lap it up. Good thing it has hired back the maverick Albanian photographer starting this year. Pageant fans are hoping it will be for the long haul this time around.
4. Notorious Last Minute Hosting Announcement that leads to a rushed edition
This decade saw the penchant for the Miss Universe Organization to formally announce its host country at the eleventh hour. While we commend the organization for announcing it way in advance in 2011, 2013 and 2018, the same cannot be said for the rest of the years. While pageant fans may give both the Las Vegas 2012 and Doral 2014 editions a pass, they cannot fathom the thought the organization would do the unthinkable, that is to hold the preliminary competition of the 2017 edition in the mezzanine floor of a hotel and the rushed finals in only a 2000-seating capacity venue this year.
Surely, the Miss Universe Organization could have done so much better in this aspect.
5. Continental Top 15/20 selection format
Eversince the Miss Universe Organization implemented this kind of format for the past three years, pageant fans have been mostly divisive about the issue. While the pageant fandom welcomes the idea that all contestants will now be given an equal and fair chance to win, it still doesn’t well with them the most.
For one, how could Asia and Africa be lumped in one group together when Asia has less than 30 countries in its group? Same as in the Americas region where Caribbean, North and South Americas numbering to more than 40 contestants, could only scramble for five spots. The wildcard category is also proving to be a ‘Debby downer’ of sorts for these contestants as it mentally tells a contestant that she is only a “spare tire” or middling in the pack considering she did not make it to the top of her region.
Can the organization choose the highest scoring girls based on merit instead?
6. The rushed “swimsuit and evening gown” segments over the years
Has anyone noticed how these portions’ airtime have been significantly reduced over the past few years? Whether it has something to do with the size of the stage or camera blocking, it seems like the fun and excitement about these portions have been significantly cut. The 2014 edition was a preview. The groups by threes during the 2016 was a huge letdown. Three weeks ago, these portions only made up around five minutes each during the three hour telecast.
These portions have been the heart and soul of the pageant brand ever since its existence. It is such a travesty that it is giving way to a lot of interview segments which should be balanced.
Everything that is listed down here aren’t all of the groundbreaking moments or advances that have occurred over the past decade for the Miss Universe Organization. There is so much more work to be done. Regardless of the hits and misses that the organization has made, this author is confident that the brand is heading towards the new decade energized to remain current and relevant in pop culture.
It looks like it’s Thailand’s year in pageantry this year.
The duo of Falcon Somnarin and Arttitaya Promchart proved to be unstoppable as they emerged top winners at the 1st Global Asian Model Competition finals held at Cove Manila last night.
The competition aims to look for the next Asian sensations in the world of runway, commercial and print ad modeling. And as proven by what we saw in the competition last night, all 38 aspiring models were judged in 3 categories: casual, swimwear and formal wear while walking down the ramp.
In the end, the Thai duo bested 36 other aspiring models earning them usd10,000 richer and another usd10,000 worth of modeling contract from EmpirePH.
Congratulations to all the people behind the success of this event, most especially to Sir Jona Gaffud, Empire CEO. Other celebrities were also spotted in this event like Miss Universe Singapore 2019 Mohana Prabha, Daniel Matsunaga, Binibining Pilipinas 2019 International Patricia Magtanong, Sirs RS Francisco and Sam Verzosa , Frontrow Enterprises CEOs.
Here are the other winners of the night :
Global Asian Model 2019 winners!
Male Global Asian Model 2019 – Falco Sornnarin (Thailand)
Female Global Asian Model 2019 – Artittaya Promchart (Thailand)
1st Runners-Up:
Male Category – Alexander Tomohiro (Japan)
Female Category – Ella Lubag (Philippines)
2nd Runners-Up:
Male Category – Luke Pereira (Singapore)
Female Category – Runa Matsui (Japan)
4th Runners-Up:
Male Category – Tran Quang Thang (Vietnam)
Female Category – My Duyen (Vietnam)
GLAM 2019 wouldn’t be a success without the help and support of Frontrow Enteprises, a direct selling multi-level marketing engaged in beauty, health and wellness products.
#globalasianmodel2019 #IAmAsianIAmGlobal #frontrow #empireph #GlobalAsianModel
Photography by: Andy Cayna & Mike Zuniga of Orange Bear Productions
And the guessing game for the venue of this year’s Miss Universe edition continues…
It is already the month of October and the Miss Universe Organization hasn’t released any official statement regarding the forthcoming pageant. Probably, it is still busy looking for a host country as of this moment.
Yes, you read it right, Virginia…IT IS STILL BUSY SCOUTING FOR A HOST COUNTRY.
We know this sounds too incredulous to believe considering that all signs are pointing for the Philippines to host the pageant. Why do we say so? MUO President Paula Shugart and her team tagged along reigning Miss Universe Catriona Gray on her working trip to the Philippines recently. Also fueling the rumors was when she was spotted making an ocular inspection of the Philippine Arena in Bulacan afterwards. Obviously, tongues wagged when her photo with a local government official in the venue went viral on social media. Pageant observers have been feeling something is going on, further insinuating why the MUO President would come all the way to the Philippines with Catriona all of a sudden.
However, Frontrow Philippines head RS Francisco, in a recent press conference with Catriona Gray during the company’s art book launch, quickly doused the fire by clarifying the viral photo of Miss Paula Shugart in Bulacan was meant for its grand company event happening in November instead. It turns out the reigning Miss Universe will be attending this grand company event as per his big revelation in the press conference.
Then, collaborating Sir Francisco’s statement is the Ricky Lo article that came out in Philippine Star daily afterwards. According to Sir Ricky Lo’s article, there has been no negotiations happening between the Department of Tourism and the Miss Universe Organization regarding our country’s possible hosting of the pageant this year.
So if you do the Math and add up all these little pieces of information we have been gathering and hearing around, it just feels like THE PHILIPPINES MIGHT NOT HOST AFTER ALL.
So this leaves us back to the drawing board. If not the Philippines, then which country will it be?
Well according to hush-hush whispers going around pageant circles at the moment, it could end up in LAS VEGAS again. We have been through a similar situation before when Las Vegas ended up picking up the tab when the Philippines bailed out at the last minute. Remember 2017?
“You know, Adam…it has always been a toss-up between Manila and Las Vegas for this year,” a highly reliable source confided.
“In the absence of any credible leads about the South Korea, Brazil and Dubai hosting rumors, it will just all boil down between Manila and Las Vegas at the end of the day,” my source added. “You don’t have to look that far…Miss Paula already said it herself on your ambush interview that she couldn’t understand where all these Dubai/South Korea hosting rumors are coming from.”
Having said all of this, it still remains to be speculative or in question whether Las Vegas would end up hosting the pageant at the 11th hour again. Let’s try to break it down based on the mood and circumstances prevailing around.
Unlike in 2016 (after Pia won), the prevailing mood right now in Manila is that there is no real clamor for the pageant to be hosted again here. Admit it, you could feel it. Pageant fans and observers are in unison saying it’s really too soon for Manila to host again. If we look back at everything that went on last 2016, there was really a huge interest to bring back the pageant here because we hadn’t hosted in the past 20 years. “Adam, everyone is a little bit weary and tired, let’s face it. Much as we love the Miss Universe Organization immensely, but if everyone seems not on board this time around, this could not turn out to reality,” my roving DPA chimed in.
Whether you admit it or not, a government support could sometimes be the key for this to take into fruition. In 2016, the Department of Tourism under Secretary Wanda and Teo and Kat de Castro were very active in spearheading and campaigning for this event. Compare this to the present where there seems no frenzy and excitement leading up for us to host the pageant this year. Everything is just so quiet.
So the question now is when Miss Universe Organization will actually announce the official venue of the pageant this year.
We are actually waiting for the official announcement of the venue with bated breath between now and November 9. If no huge announcement will take place on Frontrow’s November 9 grand celebration (with Catriona invited to grace the event), then it could be the last minute option again.
…Which is to watch the prelims of the pageant in a mezzanine floor of a 5-star hotel….yet again…
Whether MUO finds an official venue or not within the next few months, the delay on the official announcement still bodes well for this pageant-crazy country. Not only will Gazini Ganados have more time to prepare for her back to back mission but it will afford Catriona Gray to reign for one more year much to our heart’s content and desire.
Photos taken from : MUO website and Frontrow Philippines FB Page
And the guessing game for the venue of this year’s Miss Universe edition continues…
It is already the month of October and the Miss Universe Organization hasn’t released any official statement regarding the forthcoming pageant. Probably, it is still busy looking for a host country as of this moment.
Yes, you read it right, Virginia…IT IS STILL BUSY SCOUTING FOR A HOST COUNTRY.
We know this sounds too incredulous to believe considering that all signs are pointing for the Philippines to host the pageant. Why do we say so? MUO President Paula Shugart and her team tagged along reigning Miss Universe Catriona Gray on her working trip to the Philippines recently. Also fueling the rumors was when she was spotted making an ocular inspection of the Philippine Arena in Bulacan afterwards. Obviously, tongues wagged when her photo with a local government official in the venue went viral on social media. Pageant observers have been feeling something is going on, further insinuating why the MUO President would come all the way to the Philippines with Catriona all of a sudden.
However, Frontrow Philippines head RS Francisco, in a recent press conference with Catriona Gray during the company’s art book launch, quickly doused the fire by clarifying the viral photo of Miss Paula Shugart in Bulacan was meant for its grand company event happening in November instead. It turns out the reigning Miss Universe will be attending this grand company event as per his big revelation in the press conference.
Then, collaborating Sir Francisco’s statement is the Ricky Lo article that came out in Philippine Star daily afterwards. According to Sir Ricky Lo’s article, there has been no negotiations happening between the Department of Tourism and the Miss Universe Organization regarding our country’s possible hosting of the pageant this year.
So if you do the Math and add up all these little pieces of information we have been gathering and hearing around, it just feels like THE PHILIPPINES MIGHT NOT HOST AFTER ALL.
So this leaves us back to the drawing board. If not the Philippines, then which country will it be?
Well according to hush-hush whispers going around pageant circles at the moment, it could end up in LAS VEGAS again. We have been through a similar situation before when Las Vegas ended up picking up the tab when the Philippines bailed out at the last minute. Remember 2017?
“You know, Adam…it has always been a toss-up between Manila and Las Vegas for this year,” a highly reliable source confided.
“In the absence of any credible leads about the South Korea, Brazil and Dubai hosting rumors, it will just all boil down between Manila and Las Vegas at the end of the day,” my source added. “You don’t have to look that far…Miss Paula already said it herself on your ambush interview that she couldn’t understand where all these Dubai/South Korea hosting rumors are coming from.”
Having said all of this, it still remains to be speculative or in question whether Las Vegas would end up hosting the pageant at the 11th hour again. Let’s try to break it down based on the mood and circumstances prevailing around.
Unlike in 2016 (after Pia won), the prevailing mood right now in Manila is that there is no real clamor for the pageant to be hosted again here. Admit it, you could feel it. Pageant fans and observers are in unison saying it’s really too soon for Manila to host again. If we look back at everything that went on last 2016, there was really a huge interest to bring back the pageant here because we hadn’t hosted in the past 20 years. “Adam, everyone is a little bit weary and tired, let’s face it. Much as we love the Miss Universe Organization immensely, but if everyone seems not on board this time around, this could not turn out to reality,” my roving DPA chimed in.
Whether you admit it or not, a government support could sometimes be the key for this to take into fruition. In 2016, the Department of Tourism under Secretary Wanda and Teo and Kat de Castro were very active in spearheading and campaigning for this event. Compare this to the present where there seems no frenzy and excitement leading up for us to host the pageant this year. Everything is just so quiet.
So the question now is when Miss Universe Organization will actually announce the official venue of the pageant this year.
We are actually waiting for the official announcement of the venue with bated breath between now and November 9. If no huge announcement will take place on Frontrow’s November 9 grand celebration (with Catriona invited to grace the event), then it could be the last minute option again.
…Which is to watch the prelims of the pageant in a mezzanine floor of a 5-star hotel….yet again…
Whether MUO finds an official venue or not within the next few months, the delay on the official announcement still bodes well for this pageant-crazy country. Not only will Gazini Ganados have more time to prepare for her back to back mission but it will afford Catriona Gray to reign for one more year much to our heart’s content and desire.
Photos taken from : MUO website and Frontrow Philippines FB Page
It’s been a bumpy road to this year’s Mister Global pageant, a road plagued by last minute changes and creative differences between the stakeholders of the pageant. But to their credit, this year’s new main sponsor and licensee holder, CDN Productions Head Miss Merian Axelgaard and her team gave a spectacular run of this edition by introducing sweeping changes to make the pageant brand grow stronger after last year’s humiliating sponsor and finals venue controversies. But after all of that behind-the-scenes drama, a combination of high caliber roster of inspiring gentlemen plus dynamic changes made this year’s affair still an unqualified success.
Host PK Piyawat Kampetch kicked off the show with his superb high-level brand of hosting. Whereas many of its rivals’ ceremonies traditionally start on a more somber and dignified note, it was refreshing to see the contestants rocking out their national costumes onstage. Even the pageant owner, Pradit Pradinunt, cracked a smile.
It was clear very early in the affair that the show would incorporate some dynamic changes. As PK kept the show going at a very quick pace, we couldn’t help but wonder what the show would have been had it been staged at its original venue Lumpinee Stadium. Surely, the attendance turnout would have been better. Nitpicks aside, there was a real energy to the ceremony. There was also a palpable excitement in the room, which was reflected in the number of cheers the contestants got onstage.
Kudos still go to the staging and set for the ceremony held in the Grand Ballroom of Novotel Sukhumvit 20 Hotel. Each of the contestants was given ample exposure which was matched by maverick Xion Lim’s dazzling cheoreography. For those watching in the venue, it gave them an intimate feel of the affair which gave its own true sense of spectacle in this year’s affair.
But perhaps no moment will be more remembered than Merian Axelgaard’s stunning speech during the start of the show. The new female licensee holder of the pageant made sure to drive home the pageant’s new “Inspiring Gentlemen” slogan for everyone to remember, before thanking her contestants and crew. What made Axelgaard such a perfect host/sponsor was her sheer joy and enthusiasm for her newfound job despite the behind-the-scenes drama. It was definitely an unplanned, unguarded moment of authenticity from her part, which in the end, is a reminder of the fun and unpredictability a pageant should have.
As I wrap up my review about this male pageant, I am now listing down my Top 9 reasons why covering it this year was worth my time. I know this year’s edition may have received its fair share of contempt, coming under fire for not being as organized or objectifying men to a sexual stereotype or all-around diverse. In my personal opinion, men posing in their almost-naked underwear is something that is part and parcel of ever male pageant and while its something it is really inevitable, we should look at male beauty pageants more than this. I think more than the abs and trunks , we really should look for gentlemen who could be a role model and inspiration to generations of other young men and little boys while involving in life-changing, selfless work that benefit others.
As an international pageant correspondent for Sash Factor, these kinds of issues surrounding male pageants disappoint me all the time. However, male pageants aren’t all that bad. And even if they were, we still need to familiarize ourselves with whats going on with our pop culture and modern living and dissect some of it that needs to be changed. So here are my top 9 reasons why covering this year’s Mister Global was worth my time.
This year, Mister Global is all about #InspiringGentlemen
With a new female sponsor taking over this year’s edition, it’s imperative that the main thrust of the pageant has to be overhauled. When a female takes over, she looks at it from a different perspective by looking more on these contestants inner qualities instead.
This year, the male contestants were made to participate in a lot of projects that showcase their sensitivity towards women. There was a sexy photoshoot they did with former Thai beauty queen, Maeya and her baby in an effort to empower women by supporting breastfeeding in public. Over the years, the prejudice towards women breastfeeding in public has grown a lot, with more women opting not to breastfeed in public anymore. So for these gentlemen to create an awareness campaign about a women-related issue is poignant and awe-inspiring.
2. Organizers Feted the Contestants with First Class Treatment
Merian Axelgaard and Pradit Pradinunt made sure no stones were unturned for this pageant venture in terms of providing the contestants with great hotel accommodations and attentive staff to assist them with their emergency needs.
For this year’s edition, the contestants were all billeted in Novotel Sukhumvit 20 Hotel in Bangkok and Lanna Palace Hotel in Chiang-Mai. As such, food was overflowing wherever the contestants went. The contestants would always wake up to a sumptuous continental buffet breakfast all the time. If there are no sponsor lunch or dinner visits, heathy packed meals, courtesy of GP Catering, were always served for lunch and dinner.
Even the buses the organizers hired for the Chiang-Mai trip was top-of-the-line. The seats in the buses were so comfortable to sit the whole time as it had a massage feature and reclining buttons for one to get be really relaxed. There is also a small tv screen in front of each seat for the passengers for movie-viewing pleasure similar to the ones we see in the inflight entertainment of all commercial airlines. Since the trip going back and forth Chiang-Mai was 8 hours long, snacks and refreshment drinks were served all the time.
So this is contrary to the photos being circulated on social media that the contestants were ill-provided during the time of their stay in Novotel.
So when the photos of some contestants sleeping on the floor of a hotel ballroom went viral on social media, we thought it’s really a NON-ISSUE.
To give you a background behind those photos online, the contestants had just arrived back in Novotel Hotel from an overnight bus trip in Chiang-Mai. That was around 6:30am. Unfortunately, the rooms to be provided for the contestants weren’t all ready as the standard check-in time was still 2pm.
Since the contestants were still so tired from the trip, the pageant staff deemed it better to allow the use of one of the hotel’s ballrooms for their temporary. bag and luggage deposit. The contestants also saw this downtime to rest by sleeping on the floor while waiting for their room keys and assignments to be given. Everything was under the control of the staff. Biscuits and refreshment drinks were also provided again when they went up to the ballroom.
Frankly, there is no issue here. As a seasoned traveler, this is a normal occurrence. When you arrive very early for your check-in time, one has to wait for the 12 noon check-in time
3. These Guys Show Unity
I have always thought that men are not supposed to act close with fellow men in public places especially if they are all participating in a high-stake competition. Thankfully, these contestants have shown camaraderie and brotherhood for one another despite coming for the same title. Whether it’s in the breakfast buffet table or in long bus trips, the bonds formed are real and genuine. Take a look at this video of Mister South Africa helping Mister Portugal do his make up when the latter woke up one early morning with a swollen eye due to an insect bite.
4. The Gorgeous Beauty Looks In High Fashion Shoots
Merian Axelgaard’s team organized a lot of theme photo shoots for the contestants this year. Apart from the customary swimwear and formal wear photo shoots we see in every pageant, the organizers took it up one notch higher by employing high fashion phorographers in this year’s edition. For instance, for the swimwear photo shoot, all the contestants wore skimpy see-through undies with high black boots this time around. While we know some critics may frown upon the sexy concept due to its sexual connotation, organizers deemed it better for fashion taste. As contestants competing for an Alpha 4 male crown, the winner will be subject to lot of photo shoot and fashion runway or spread appearances to no end. So these sexy photo shoots are deemed to showcase a contestant’s versatility and confidence no matter what he wears.
Thai retailing company, Sakunjan Enteprises, also came on board when it lent its stunning traditional costumes for the contestants to wear one of the contestants’ many photo shoot activities. These cotton or silk wrap-around “Chut Thai” outfits transported these inspiring gentlemen to a glimpse of Thai history. Usually tied around the waste and wrapped similar to a loose loincloth with men going topless with these outfits at that era, it provided another good reason for these contestants to appreciate its host country’s rich culture and tradition while showcasing its masculinity.
And I haven’t started about their national costume portraits yet…
5. The National Costumes of the Contestants Feel So Miss-Universe-y
Just like in any beauty pageant, the national costume segment is one of the most awaited part as it allows the contestants to showcase his county’s heritage and culture. For this year’s edition, the contestants did not disappoint with their showstopping and dazzling costumes which they all paraded onstage and in a photo shoot under the helm of Sir David Ryo. Check out Guam’s grand sea-inspired national costume or USA’s out-of-the-box choice suit for starters! It really gives us a good old throwback to the recent Miss Universe national costume competitions we have seen recently.
6. The contestants give back in Chiang Mai
For this year, the contestants went all the way up north to explore more of what the Land of Smiles has to offer to the world. A trip to Elephant Nature Park, Do Soi Temple and Lamour Cafe truly afforded all the contestants to do some sightseeing, eating authentic spicy Thai food and communing with nature. While this province may have hosted some editions of this pageant before, it never fails to leave a long-lasting impression on every tourist visiting the quiet and laid-back province.
But all these sightseeing trips pale in comparison to the almost THB20,000 they have raised for various #SaveTheElephant charity organizations which aim to help and protect the welfare of distressed elephants in that community in a fashion show they participated in. Who knew you could party and have fun while raising lots of of money for a cause? Brilliant marketing.
7. Surprising Top 16 outcome leads to learning how to lose graciously
There was no doubt both Mister South Africa Marcus Max Karsten and Mister USA Branden Cruz were heavy favorites to win the title. Unfortunately, both were completely shut out of a Top 16 call during the finals. It’s the most surprising twist of the entire pageant, to be honest.
Sure, the organizers may have a reason or two for excluding them in the final roster but we cannot help but be amazed at how these two had remained magnanimous and positive despite the negative outcome. Sometimes, you’ve just got to keep smiling even when you fee like going on a Beast rampage. So taking a page out of these guys’ books and learn how to emotionally in control is something we could all learn from these two inspiring gentlemen
8.Their ripped and banging bodies are your fitness inspo
Years of massive gym training paid off for these guys so it’s only best their sculpted bodies also deserve the attention. If these could guys could already master enough discipline in maintaining their bodies, then how much more if they will
given more responsibilities in life? .
9.. Mister Portugal Could Be a Portuguese Male Version of Tina Fey or Amy Poehler
Coming into the competition, we never had Angelo Amaro, Mister Portugal, in out list of contenders. But spending a lot of him for the past two weeks have made us realize he is pretty awesome. He never fails to show his comedic side everywhere we all went to. From his comedic adventures behind-the-scenes with his fellow contestants, whether it’s doing Instagram live with Mister Spain or dancing with some oldies just to get a piece of cake as he is hungry one midnight in the hotel lobby or clowning around with the contestants while donning their national costumes at the backstage during the finals, he never fails to provide comic relief with everyone. Here’s hoping for more of his likeness in all the international pageants we will be invited to cover in the near future.
Photos taken from Andy Cayna and Official Mister Global fB Page
After two weeks of experiencing an amazing time in Thailand, the 6th edition of Mister Global will now come to an end at the Benjasiri Ballroom Of Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 in Bangkok, Thailand tomorrow noght. It is now high time for us to reveal our top picks for the title.
But before that, we would like to commend the pageant organization for coming up with pre-pageant activities that feel like a trip of a lifetime. Taking after its new tagline “Inspiring Gentlemen,” CDN Productions, led by its chairwoman Merian Axelgaard, has made sure that all activities from Day 1 will reflect the newly improved image of the Organization. They left no stone unturned for this venture. It is the first time this production company has spearheaded an international male pageant and credit goes to this team for spearheading noteworthy and memorable activities, including the charitable #SaveTheElephant campaign where the contestants raised money for the welfare of elephants in Chiang Mai.
So who will the new winner be?
Having spent enough time with the 38 candidates the past 2 weeks, we have extra confidence in coming up with our Top 15 list.
The way we see it, it’s going to be a battle between Switzerland’s Kenan Murseli And Korea’s Tim Jong Woo. These two definitely fit the winner prototype Mister Global has been crowning for the past few years: boy-next-door with huge commercial appeal.
Kenan Murseli from #Switzerland has been impressing us with his charm and likability eversince we arrived in Bangkok two weeks ago. He really has a handsome and marketable appeal which will definitely prove to be an asset to the organization. But more than his good looks , it’s his humility which strikes us the most about him.
We also feel the same way for Tim Jong Woo from #Korea. Just like his Swiss rival, this hot Oppa is such a dreamboat. He is well loved by pageant organizers for his very likable personality. This guy practices what he preaches back home about healthy lifestyle as he is taking up his Masters Degree in Physical Education.
In third place is the tall, dark and handsome contender from #Tunisia, Houssem Saidi. This 6 footer guy packs so much heat with his strong stage presence and engaging personality in the competition. He is just as delectable as the chocolate mousse we keep craving for our dessert. This psychology graduate is definitely giving the pageant an “inclusivity and diversity” feel with his look and backstory. He is definitely a strong contender as well.
#Poland’s Michal Jan Grudzien from Poland is so fashionable and eye-catching as he takes the fourth spot in our list. We just couldn’t stop staring at his face every time we see him in events. He really hits the brief when it comes to the “boy-next-door” guy this organization is looking for. He is also cheerful and amiable with his fellow contestants. Definitely the face of this year’s pageant.
Rounding up our Top 5 is Herman Yosef from #Indonesia. He is really peaking at the right time. We just couldn’t resist his charm. For those in the Philippines, we liken him to a ‘smiling Joseph Marco.’ He really can melt hearts with his good upbringing and extremely sexy smile. We are hooked.
We have not forgotten #SouthAfrica’s Marcus Maxkarsten who is still very much in contention for the title. His movie-star appeal really takes our breath away. He is always passionate and intense, the type of person who always leaves an impression with his audience.
#Chile has produced some pretty talented and not to mention good looking men in pageantry and Nelson Caceres is no exception. Ugh, just look at him! That sexy gaze and his chocolate brown eyes and banging body!could make any girls heart skip a beat. And this doesn’t include how gifted he is in the talk department. He’s really a manly man as he works on his body, he has a great love for God, and he’s easy on the eyes.
The captivating gentleman is the best way to describe #USA’s Branden Cruz. This former Men Universe contestant oozes with a different kind of sex appeal. More than his looks, it’s his gift of gab that appeals us the most. For us, he possesses all the qualities to win it all. If he enters the top 5, expect this articulate guy to annihilate the competition
#Portugal’s Angelo Amaro takes our ninth spot in this contest unexpectedly. For us, he is the heartbeat of this year’s competition because of his friendly and open demeanor. He knows how to endear themselves to others from the get-go. He understands the importance of presenting himself as being genuine and willing to connect. He is such a natural and we wouldn’t mind seeing him up there in the finals.
#Spain’s Jose Luis Rodrigo Navarro is also someone we can’t take our eyes off. How could anyone pass on him? His beautiful eyes are easy to get lost in, he has amazing style, and the icing on the already perfect cake is he is RIPPED. If we won’t put him out in this list, we are missing out big time.
It is easy to see why everyone is charmed by #Taiwan’s Kevin Chang. He has perfectly-coiffed hair, a voice is as smooth as silk, and is an incredible gifted speaker who is a celebrity in his native land. The thing about him is that he has a beautiful Canadian accent which can get you in life fellas. It is just a shame he was under appreciated in his previous pageant assignment so we are hoping he gets his redemption soon.
#Brazil’s Gil Raupp presence is also something that couldn’t be missed in this competition. He is not just a superhero in his community but super hot as well. He blazes through the competition with his height, amazing sculpted body and exemplary runways skills despite speaking limited English.
#Mexico’s Manuel Duarte is, for us, the charismatic introvert of this pageant. He has a quiet charm we can’t explain. Interacting with him everyday makes us learn how to be charming as a quiet person. That one also has put your natural personality to work.
We also can’t get enough of #Thailand’s Jeerawat Vetsakol who has been acting as the gracious host delegate for this year’s batch. He is outgoing and full of energy and makes us want to be with his company all the time.
Last, but not the least, is Ricky Gumera from the #Philippines. This guy has been holding his own against the heavy favorites of the competition. He really has his own brand of charm which makes him a standout in the competition. Just like any Filipino delegate in pageants, he came in prepared as evidenced how he acquitted himself during the dreaded closed door preliminary interview.
Graphic Poster Designer: Gil Adia
Those who say that there are possible beauty standards for men have never met Mister Global Brazil 2019 Gil Raupp.
It’s another day at the mini-gym here in Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 in Bangkok. The floor suddenly is swarming with Mister Global Candidates doing their own exercise routine, grunting like sinewy fish in a bow of floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The only eye contact anyone makes here is with themselves.
So I do my own workout routine as well. I set out for the bike machine for my warm up routine while overlooking the pool area. As I do my cardio by the glass window of the gym, a man suddenly emerges from the door with a gym bag over his shoulder. One by one, the peacocking males around him begin to wither into betas. You can almost see them questioning their self-esteem in real time, comparing themselves to him In an imaginary pageant, and losing.
Describing him without succumbing to hyperbole is difficult, so perhaps it is best not to try. Gil is 6’3” with a clean cut hair. His appearance is so startling, it’s almost impossible not to stare. He is like a Tarzan in suit and tie with short hair. He simply does not look real.
But, evidently, he is real. He really does look the way I describe him: somehow, impossibly; “perfect.”
”Thank you so much for your kinds words,” he says in his limited English. “I know people cheer for me not only for beauty, but mainly for the person I am. I am simple, humble, charismatic, good character and good heart. it captivates people. I’m proud to be like this.”
He is it trying to cause a commotion here in the gym. It doesn’t seem that he is doing this to be provocative on purpose. about he can’t help. The subtle hierarchy on the gym floor brings to mind nature documentaries about elephant seals. These animalistic tendencies , as much as everyone tries to be civilized, seem to still exist, the other hotel guests, especially the female ones, here embrace the varying degrees of honesty. If he decided to assert his dominance in this place, none could challenge him.
However, meeting Gil, one finds this extremely good-looking lad is anything but an aggressive alpha jockeying for territory. The competition is , really, fictitious. He is utterly kind – almost too kind. He will wax happily about things he does outside what he does in pageantry, leaving every place and person better than he found to, and like. He goes out of his way not to threaten.
”I just don’t want you guys to know me as a man with good looks and physique. I am here to inspire people. Back home, I have been involved with a lot of social projects with causes close to my heart,” he adds while googling translate his thoughts to me in English through his phone.
”For starters, I am a regular blood donor in my community. I also have been involved with a social project that involves debutantes who can’t afford to have a coming out party. We organized the whole party. I also participate in waltzing with the girls, as if they were their prince. It’s something that makes me very good. If I see someone in need of help, I feel obligated to give some help.“
Gil insists he is very passionate about his job as an “inspiring gentleman.”
”To be honest, I came here in Bangkok with a lot of effort. I went through a lot to get here while others had easier ways. but I don’t agree with them. I have received a lot of criticism and was judged but I never gave up although I often think of giving up because of difficulties, criticism, evil and prejudice. But being Mister Global has become a dream, so with a lot of drive, determination and willpower, I’ve gotten over it and I’m here. Showing everyone that it’s never too late to realize our dreams. Here with me are all the people who believe and support me, in this journey. For that, have always been encouraged. They are all very important, without them I would not be here.”
When asked if he would pursue a more traditional career, had he not been so physically blessed, he seems reluctant to even acknowledge his blessings.
“ I want to show everyone the person I am. To be able to carry the good forward throughout the world. Show that a mister is far above ego and vanity, because beauty ends up becoming small when people do not realize that the true value is to bring good to others.”
There is nothing, it seems, unusual about his ambition. And yet, because of his looks, half of the gay population in Bangkok desires him or at least suspicious of his intentions. Sure, he didn’t pick his face or height. But the most startling thing about him is undoubtedly his level of fitness – which is something most of us can attain with time, patience and hard work. His looks may cause envy but his attitude courts an old fashion Filipino quote: “The hardworking will always defeat the most handsome person in the room.”
So how does Gil see himself 5 years from now on?
“I find myself happy with my family, having both emotional and financial stability as well. I see myself even better as a person, being recognized for the good legacy I want to leave.”
As simple as Gil’s life is, his relentless positive worldview is ebbing on me. Talking to him reverses the effect of looking at him: the desire to tear him down turns into a desire to build oneself up. Whether he is simply doing some sort of a “nice guy” persona to spread his brand in this pageant, or he really is genuine, the effect seems to be the same.
“For people who want to do the same as I do, find your mission life and go for it. As long as you have willpower, motivation and determination to succeed, it’s never too late to realize our dreams.”
The Miss World Philippines Organization should be given a pat on the back for pulling a solid show out of nowhere last Sunday night. None of your pageant finals’ staples were cut, and nearly all of them proved to be a huge benefit to the telecast — from choosing a new set of hosts this year (Who knew TV/movie actor Edgar Allan De Guzman and Miss ReinaHispanoAmericana 2017 Teresita Sen could host so well?) to the modern stage design where it gave emphasis on a longer runway to the length and pacing (this year clocked in as the fastest in three hours and a half ), the 2019 Miss World Philippines finals ran smoother and was far more absorbing than many expected.
And there was a promising indicator as to why. So much negativity has always been clouding this pageant no matter what it does lately. The decisions the two Arnolds (Vegafria and Mercado) had been making leading up to this year’s ceremony, the one very, very good choice was not largely forgotten: attracting a diverse group of contestants all over the country in just short notice. Despite a predictable winner outcome, this year’s MWP finals offered many positive steps forward. The new General Manager made a lot of dynamic changes evidently seen in the telecast : There was more emphasis on the charity aspect of the organization, which hinges a lot on what its mother company (Miss World Organization) has been championing over the years. Apart from adding Two more titles at stake, he also led a stunning group of newbie contestants who surprisingly proved to be more articulate than its seasoned counterparts (which is really a testament to his eye for beauty) despite running a tumultuous Mr World last month. He also led sweeping format changes to make the show more transparent and lovely by making numerous cuts: Top 20, down to 12 until they selected the 8 new girls comprising the new court.
Those production format changes definitely fit its progressive tone and we are glad it has been making huge strides in its three years of existence. This is what happens in transitional years: a mixed bag of uncertainty and surprising choices always happen all the time But across-the-board seamlessness and improvement are bound to happen when everyone has already adjusted to his new roles and function.
But Michelle Dee’s win helps the telecast. Some viewers may be upset, but they can’t deny the show itself was entertaining, which leads us to the critical takeaway: The Miss World Philippines Organization is thriving because it is staying true in its core which is to look for the second Filipina who could embody the Beauty With A purpose slogan to heart . It’s very easy to imagine things going the other way, and this version of the telecast being an utter snoozefest. But this year, for the first time in 3 years, the whole MWP organization won. It finally came alive! It was raw, surprising, and heartfelt! It felt like it was coming from the deep recesses of Miss World’s being: finally modern and fast-paced.
The last 10 years have been a truly epic and wild time at the Miss Universe pageant.
2. Steve Harvey
3. “Fadils” were taken out
eir ripped and banging bodies are your fitness inspo
heyadamgenato 