The 50 Bb. Pilipinas 2013 contestants at the Talent Show… beauty queens Nicole Schmitz, Janine Tugonon, Shamcey Supsup and Katrina Dimaranan up in front!

I have been dying to see all 50 girls in Bb. Pilipinas 2013 and I finally got my first glimpse of them all (as official candidates) in the Talent Show held last Saturday, March 9, 2013 at the Gateway Mall Activity Center.

My first impression and predictions? I’ll tackle all that in my next posts.

For now, here are my thoughts on the 16 lasses who chose to present their talents:

Predictably, most contestants chose to sing. What can you do when we are a nation of songbirds and karaoke kings? The second popular talent presented was dancing. No surprise there either. Then there were a couple unexpected presentations: a hoola-hoop number and a magic show.

Then we had one declamation. We Pinoys LOVE declamation. I trace it back to all those declamation contests in elementary and high school; contests which our teachers seemed quite fond of. It was a great way to torture students who needed to improve their crappy grades, LOL!

But I wonder if any contestant ever won Miss Talent in Bb. Pilipinas history because of her declamation skills… hmmm… do any of you pageant history buffs know anything about this? Feeling ko wala pang nananalo dahil sa declamation…  but correct me please, if I’m wrong

As for my prediction for Bb. Pilipinas Talent 2013 – I can only guess. Unlike the three previous years where it was pretty clear to me who would win (Krista Kleiner in 2010, Shamcey Supsup in 2011 and Katrina Dimaranan in 2012) this year is a bit more difficult. No one had a presentation that really knocked me out. But I did enjoy each one!

Nevertheless, I shall hazard a guess – that Anna Carmina Antonio (#11, below) the contestant who did the magic show will win because it was the most unique presentation in the Talent Show and she was pretty good at her tricks. Most of all, she left me wondering how she fit into those tiny little silver shorts that looked no bigger than a hanky. I guess it’s just MAGIC, LOL! Okay, I’m just teasing!!! Anna Carmina Antonio really looked awesome in her magician’s outfit, for true!

Anna Carmina Antonio from Isabela – my pick for Miss Talent in Bb. Pilipinas 2013 for her skill in prestidigitation!

My second choice for Miss Talent would be Theresa Marie Fenger (#35, below) who did a song number.  Miss Fenger happens to be the lead singer of the local group Eurasia. Out of all the singers she had the most polished  performance. It involved a lot of  shimmying and butt wiggling which left her breathless but still able to belt out her lines. If I tried that, I’d have an asthma attack in 30 seconds flat. But in Theresa Marie Fenger’s case, it was the audience who couldn’t breathe due to her electric grooves and mooves!

NOTE*** Miss Theresa Fenger was, unfortunately, disqualified from the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 beauty pageant. Please click here to read more about what happened.

Theresa Marie Fenger sings Rihanna songs! She reminds me of KC Concepcion in this shot…

My third choice is Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom (#44, below), the contestant who danced Flamenco. She TRULY had classic flamenco moves with fancy fingers, sinewy arms and snappy feet. She also had a very Flamenco look about her – intense and yet sexy at the same time. Flamenco is all about attitude and this girl had it nailed!

Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom looks fierce in this bullfighting pose. She reminds me of Kuh Ledesma here…

Miss Talent Darkhorse: Maria Angelica de Leon (#31, below).  This gorgeous babe is capable of producing some awesome Soprano notes! Bravo to Mariel de Leon for giving us some REAL entertainment – the offspring of Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong sang an opera number that made me think of angels in the sky… but I’m sorry I can’t tell you what the song was since I’m not much of an opera fan (altho I appreciate it) and you know how opera singers are like rock stars? You can’t understand a single word they’re singing… heehehehe…  but in fairness, this girl is my Miss Talent Darkhorse. She could steal the special award from under our noses because some of the judges looked like opera fans to me…

The one and only opera number came from Maria Angelica de Leon

Special mention: Christine Paula Love Bernasor (#18, below) from Ormoc, the contestant who did the modern Pandanggo sa Ilaw dance – she dropped one candle right after she placed it on her head, caught it quickly, mesmerized the audience with a naughty smile and gave a ‘give-me-one-more-try’ signal at us. I was automatically arrested by her charm! If there was a Miss Charming award, it would definitely go to her. AND, her choice of song – a Francis M  a Black Eyed Peas rap song titled Filipino (I think) Bebot, was a great idea!

Oooops! Christine Paula Love Bernasor drops her candle! She reminds me of Patty Betita…

And now for the rest of the talent contestants and my thoughts on their presentations:

Rea Nakpil cries Alms! Alms! in her declamation. Such fabulously fierce eyes on her. No beggar could ever look this beautiful!

I love this dramatic shot above of Rea Nakpil (#43) as she took on the role of a street beggar. Her flashing eyes are her best asset. It is just too bad that the sound system was malfunctioning so we did not get to hear her declamation clearly. However, when she got to the shouting parts, I was pleasantly surprised to hear a big solid voice (and not a shrieking one) come out of her. Watching her writhe, moan and beg on stage was a treat!

*****

Parul Shah gets the best abs award from ABQ for having no vestige of fat on her waistline! Doesn’t she remind you of actress Nanette Medved?

I was dismayed because most of the time, Parul Shah (#33) showed the audience her backside when her front side was far, FAR more interesting! Her abs are to die for. Her smile is a killing machine. And her hips have the sonic qualities of a Tahitian earthquake.

*****

Zandra Flores sings “Loving You” while the audience is loving her…

Zandra Flores (#3) flowed onto the stage in a billowy blue gown and sang “Loving You,” that song with an ultra high note in it. And yes, she can hit that note like a prize fighter!

*****

Imelda Schwiegart (#45) sings Rihanna’s Diamond in a glittery gown that had a hard time containing her sex appeal…

Thanks to her performance, my hubby and I suffered from LSS (last song syndrome) all night. We kept singing – “Shine bright like a diamond…” all night long and laughing our heads off. Anywhoo… Imelda Schwiegart (#45) looked dazzling in her imeldific gown which matched her song and made me think of Marilyn Monroe. Imelda wins the Sexiest Singer Award from ABQ!

*****

Angeli Dione Gomez shows off her Hoola Hoop tricks!

Angeli Dion Gomez (#48) showed us a thing or two about taming a wild Hoola Hoop! This was one of the more unique presentations at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Talent Show and an audience favorite!

*****

Count. One, two, three, four, five, six. SIX! Anna Carmela Aquino has SIX pots on her head!!!

This number had me at the edge of my chair; I was so scared she’d drop her towering load of six pots! My seatmate started taking footage – ‘just in case she breaks them all,” he said. Very funny. Well, Anna Carmela Aquino (#10) did not break a single pot but she had me and the rest of the crowd squealing in fright because there were a few moments that looked scary. Good job with the pots, grrrrl!

*****

Nicole Donesa looks like a Disney Princess and sings like one too!

Was this Sleeping Beauty singing a golden oldie? NO! It was Nicole Donesa (#4) warbling away…  “Someone to Waaaaaatch… Over Mmmeeeeeee… “

*****

Belly Dancing!!! From Aiyana Mickiwicz…

Belly dancing is always fun to watch! But when you don’t have much of a belly, how can you be a belly dancer? This is the question I wanted to ask Aiyana Mickewicz (#47) as she twirled around the stage in her golden costume…  LOL!

*****

Pia Wurtzbach mesmerizes with her eyes as she sang to the audience at the Bb. Pilipinas Talent Show 2013!

Pia Wurtzbach (#15) walked on stage, pure vixen, and treated us to a rendition of “On My Own” from Le Miz. Her soulful eyes fit the song well!

*****

A dance interpretation from Jan Helen Villanueva… check out the Bb. crown, it’s right on her head!

We all felt bad for Jan Helen Villanueva (#40); because of a mix-up in her music, she ended up lying in a fetal position for several minutes on stage as she waited and waited and WAITED for her song to begin. You know how some dance numbers start with the dancer curled up on the floor? Anyway, when her song, Ave Maria, finally started playing, Jan Helen Villanueva was all over the stage leaping and twirling and doing high kicks. She also did a pretty neat flip at one point. Love it!

*****

Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo sings us some Phantom of the Opera…

It’s really wonderful when contestants choose great songs with depth to entertain us – Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo (#42) dished out “Think of Me” from the Phantom of the Opera and I’m sure she was hoping that the judges would think of her come coronation night on April 14, 2013!

*****

Dear ABQ Readers:

As supporters of contestant Theresa Fenger (an ABQ favorite) continue to reel from her shocking disqualification from Bb. Pilipinas 2013 (read more here) the pageant takes a short hiatus for the Holy Week break. I’m sure the girls won’t go on hiatus though – they’ll be training, dieting and working out as much as they can.

In the meantime, ABQ continues with it’s review of the contestants and their performance at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Press Presentation held at the ballroom of the Makati Shangril-La Hotel on March 18, 2013.

In this post are my thoughts on Contestants 1 to 10. There are a total of 50 contestants, just scroll down to see my thoughts on them.  Those highlighted in Red were the ones I liked the most. Unless specifically mentioned, they are not necessarily my Top Choices yet, but for me, they did outshine the others at the Press Presentation!

BTW, thanks to our lovely hosts for the evening: Bb. Pilipinas International 2012 Nicole Schmitz, Bb. Pilipinas Tourism 2012 Katrina Dimaranan and Miss Universe 2012 1st Runner-up Janine Tugonon!

L-R Nicole Schmitz (Bb. Pilipinas International 2012), Janine Tugonon (Miss Universe 2012 1st Runner-up) and Katrina Dimaranan (Bb. Pilipinas Tourism 2012)

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And now for my thoughts on

CONTESTANTS 1 TO 10…

1. Ria Rabajante – 23 years – Pasig City

Ria Rabanjante woke up a sleepy crowd at the Makati Shang-ri La with a spicy walk and a neat, pulled-back look while throwing smiles at the audience. Some pageant pundits in the crowd were whispering that Ria Rabajante was looking finer than ever saying they preferred this clean look of hers. Ria, who aims to become a film director one day, recieved loud applause during her solo walk in the Press Presentation – music to her ears I’m sure, because it’s always been her dream to join Bb. Pilipinas from the time she watched Miriam Quiambao place 2nd in Miss Universe 1999! For me, she’s a cross between Bb. Pilipinas World 2010 Czarina Gatbonton and Miss Univerwse 1st RU Janine Tugonon…

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2. Ma. Bencelle Bianzon – 23 years – Quezon City

Ma. Bencelle Bianzon admits that her prominent ears and dark complexion made her a frequent target of bullies in school. They called her ugly. I wonder what those bullies are saying now? Just look at Ma. Bencelle Bianzon: glittering smile, mysterious eyes and not a single ugly bone in her body!  Golly, she should just beat them up since she’s an Philippines Army Reservist. But, I guess bullies are not worth half the attention you’d give to a fly. In her profile she says: I decided to join Bb. Pilipinas 2013 to prove that I can succeed in spite of what other people are saying behind my back. IMHO, Ma. Bencelle Bianzon has already proven it by qualifying to be one of the 50 official contestants this year!

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3. Zandra Flores – 24 years – Pangasinan

I saw this on Zandra Flores’ Model Mayhem page: Been in TV Commercials: The Range, United Carpets and Beds and DFS Dining. As a front cover of EONA by Alison Goodman. Modelled sportswear for Sports Direct and Asian clothings for an Asian Catalogue. Recently crowned as Miss Philippines Commonwealth International 2010 and Queen of Friends of Commonwealth International 2010. I’m thinking that all of the above happened in the UK since I don’t recognize the brand names. Why the UK? Because that’s where she studied Cellular Pathology. At University of Bradford. Isn’t that so trippy in a CSI way? AND, this beauty doesn’t only have brains, she also has talent! Zandra Flores sang “Loving You” at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Talent Show - click here to read more about it.

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4. Nicole Donesa – 18 years – Quezon City

Which Disney Princess does this fair maiden remind you of? Sleeping Beauty I say! Nicole Donesa‘s princess-like beauty has already gotten her a few TV commercials (in the US and Philippines) and couple lead roles in indie films. Nicole Donesa is primarily based in California (her family is all there) but she’s in Manila to vie for one of the three Bb. Pilipinas crowns. I first laid my eyes on her at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Talent show where she sang “Someone to Watch Over Me”.

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5. Maria Sofia Gloria Mustonen – 23 years – Marikina

I kept wondering where I saw Maria Sofia Gloria Mustonen first… I thought she was friend of my daughter. Then I remembered – Miss Philippines Earth 2010! Maria Mustonen was Contestant #9, click here to see. Unfortunately, she was unplaced and I think it was because neneng-nene pa siya noon. But she has shed all vestiges of her little girl charm and has blossomed into a fierce femme. Maria Mustonen is now pagean-ready…  at angat ang beauty niya, this time around. She gets her well-toned legs from playing soccer competitively and is a student at Benilde studying Diplomatic and Consular Affairs.

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6. Yvette Chantal Mildenberger – 19 years – Legazpi City, Albay

I have had the pleasure of meeting Yvette Chantal Mildenberger – by phone – when I interviewed her prior to her flight to South Korea to compete in the 23rd World Miss University pageant in December 2010. In the article I wrote for her, you’ll find out more about her German-Filipino roots, her teacher parents, the local pageants she has joined and won, her two Pitbulls and the training she had to go thru for the So. Korean pageant. Yvette Chantal Mildenberger plans to put up her own travel agency – a perfect choice since she studied Tourism at Aquinas, Legazpi City. I love her stately aura and can see her succeeding as an ambassadress for the Philippines!

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7. Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales – 24 years – Quezon City

In some of her earlier photos online, you’ll see that Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales was a ‘metal-mouth’ but now that she’s taken off her dental braces, you can see the power of her brilliant smile! Depending on her styling, this Ateneo law-student sometimes reminds me of Janine Tugonon our Miss Universe 2012 1st Runner-up. But Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales still has a beauty of her own that is truly Pinay!

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8. Abbygale Monderin – 20 years – Antipolo City

Some very interesting things about Abbygale Monderin: she is a Sunday School teacher who is active in ministry. She is also the winner of Slimmer’s World Miss Bikini Philippines 2012, click here to see my article on that pageant!  Abbygale Monderin has a very unassuming style and a relaxed walk, like as if she were on the beach simply enjoying herself and not in a pageant competing with 49 other babes. Abbygale is a very focused girl with clear goals in life: She is an HRM student (with Academic distinction) at World Citi Colleges and aims to work for Burj Al Arab, Dubai’s 8-Star Hotel.

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9. Katherine Anne Enriquez – 23 years – San Mateo, Rizal

“Take all avenues to success!” seems to be the motto of Katherine Anne Enriquez. In her quest for fame and glory she’s now trying the beauty pageant road. Before joining Bb. Pilipinas, Kate Enriquez was an aspiring actress having appeared on some ABS-CBN shows and even landing a small role in the movie “Sisterakas”.  She was also a Marketing Coordinator for an events firm but left that job to join the pageant. The smile is what i love best on Katherine Anne Enriquez; she reminds me of singer Acel Bisa and gives a fresh vibe to this year’s batch of Bb. Pilipinas beauties!

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10. Anna Carmela Aquino – 22 years – Isabela

Anna Carmela Aquino gets that lovely lean look not just from her DNA but from working as a member of the Kislap Sining Dance Troupe of Philippine Normal University. She even won the troupe’s Female Dancer of the Year award in 2010. In the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Talent Show, Anna Carmela Aquino had me seated on the edge of my chair as she danced with 6 pots all balanced on her head! If I had known that this Math Major was a professional dancer who even traveled abroad to perform, then I wouldn’t have been so nervous. Suffice it to say, none of the pots broke and she left stage with vigorous applause from the audience. Her best assets for me: The eyes and the leggy-look.

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The coronation night of Bb. Pilipinas 2013, the Gold Edition will be on April 14, 2013. It will be aired live on ABS-CBN. But I hope you’ll step out of your homes that night to watch the show live with us at the Araneta Coliseum. It IS the 50th Anniversary of Bb. Pilipinas after all! You can get tickets at TicketNet – hope to see you there!

Just wanted to share with you the photos my hubby took at the Bb. Pilipinas Fashion show held April 11, 2013 at the Araneta Coliseum featuring all 50 candidates of Bb. Pilipinas 2013. I am missing one candidate tho – I feel really bad about it but somehow we missed taking a shot of her – #21 Lourenz Remetillo. And she looked fabulous at the show!

If anyone has a photo of Lourenz Remetillo and wouldn’t mind seeing it in my blog, please email it to jaedeelight@yahoo.com and I will make sure to credit you for it! Maraming Salamat!

And now, here are the 49 candidates wearing the collection of Asia’s ashion Tzar, Pitoy Moreno:

Those highlighted in red are the girls that stood out for me. If you see any mistakes in names, numbers, spelling, grammar etc. please drop me a comment!

The Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Fashion Show at Araneta Coliseum!

1. Ria Rabajante

Ria Rabajante, who is one of ABQ’s favorites, did very elegant hand movements while presenting this Sulu-Sea-Inspired outfit. It must be difficult being the first contestant in a pageant, but it is wise to put strong girls at the start and end of a pageant line-up.

*****

2. Bencelle Bianzon

The coral and shell headdress on this Pitoy Moreno creation is stunning! I wonder just how heavy it is… but Bencelle Bianzon showed now sign of difficulty; she carried it gracefully to the end.

*****

3. Zandra Flores

Loving Zandra Flores here. Excellent hand movements and expressive projection. And even if she’s wrapped in that shiny sarong, her curves stand out!

*****

4. Nicole Donesa

Nicole Donesa walked down the ramp just like a princess! She seemed to be a crowd favorite; the audience cheered for her the second she got on stage.

*****

5. Maria Mustonen

ABQ favorite Maria Mustonen swept the stage like a lioness on the hunt! Each time I see her, I like her a little bit more…

*****

6. Yvette Mildenberger

This grey-silver outfit really goes well with Yvette Mildenberger’s fair looks. She was one of the more graceful contestants with hands that flowed like water. To me, she is like a wild gazelle let loose on the plains…

*****

7. Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales

This gorgeous outfit made me wonder if Pitoy Moreno was ever commission to do uniforms for flight attendants. Doesn’t Maria Ivy Kristel look like she’s about to ask you if you want the chicken or the fish? Just kidding! But I do love her serious model look; it is truly difficult to fabulous without smiling.

*****

8. Abbygale Monderin

Beautiful contrasting colors on this skirt and jacket with cap ensemble! They go well with the sleek beauty of Abbygale Monderin.

*****

9. Katherine Anne Enriquez

Katherine Anne Enriquez slowly burned in this bright orange Filipiniana dress. And I just love the way her face reflects the feminine moodiness of a supladang Pinay!

*****

10. Anna Carmela Aquino

The dusky beauty of Anna Carmela Aquino is further enhanced by the deepness of this pink/fuschia Filipiniana creation by Pitoy Moreno. She carried the outfit with gentle grace.

*****

11. Anna Carmina Antonio

Although Anna Carmina Antonio seems dead serious in this shot, she did shower the audience with toothy smiles from time to time. From my perspective, this girl was enjoying herself on stage, proud to be a Binibini wearing Pitoy Moreno.

*****

12. Camille Carla Nazar

Beautiful tribal patterns over bright orange. And doesn’t that cap look so classy on Camille Carla Nazar? She cretainly knows how to carry high fashion…

*****

13. Charmaine Elima

I love the baby tassels on this outfit! Makes me think of jesters in a King’s court. Well, a Queen’s court, I should say. Charmaine Elima lived up to her name and did a charming job; she captivated this blogger’s heart as she worked the stage with her awesome walk!

*****

14. Mary Rose Pujanes

Mary Rose Pujanes just keeps getting better each time I see her. She took the stage confidently in this orange number and walked like as if she already had the crown on her head!

*****

15. Pia Wurtzbach

Although I prefer a smiling Pia Wurtzbach, it was interesting to see her do the “you-better-not-mess-with-me” runway look. Pia is one of the hottest contestants in this batch with a following that stretches longer than Edsa.

*****

16. Joanna Cindy Miranda

Haaaay, the face! The beautiful face!!! And the lips like sugar… Joanna Cindy Miranda is really captivating when she smiles. Loved watching her having the time of her life on stage!

*****

17. Carin Adrianne Ramos

Loved the bouncy walk of Carin Adrianne Ramos in this portion of the show! She did fantastic as she showed off the more fun side of Pitoy Moreno’s design!

*****

18. Christine Paula Love Bernasor

Christine Paula Love Bernasor got to show off her playful side (and gorgeous long legs) as she twisted and turned on stage to some Roaring 20s music!

*****

19. Hannah Ruth Sison

Hannah Ruth Sison showed us that you can still have fun even if you’re wearing shocking pink leggings and petticoat! Hannah really is very graceful and her face is just full of expression. She remains an ABQ favorite!

*****

20. Bea Santiago

A grinning Bea Santiago hogged our attention, not because she was trying hard to steal the limelight; she just simply is an eye-catching beauty! No matter where I look, my eyes inadvertently go back to her…

*****

21. LOURENZ REMETILLO

We weren’t able to take a photo of Lourenz, but if you have one, please send it to jaedeelight@yahoo.com and I’ll stick in here. I really loved her performance and am dismayed that we missed her! Thanks!

*****

22. Ellore Noelle Punzalan

Oooh, this was one of my favorite outfits!  And it was JUST perfect for Ellore Noelle Punzalan – the gold and orange just made her tan sexier. Nice arms and shoulders too…

*****

23. Leona Paula Santicruz

That black and red corset gown looked really great on Leona Paula Santicruz. She gave the costume a little extra attitude with her moody look and elegant gait…

*****

24. Cassandra Naidas

This number on Cassandra Naidas made me think of peacocks… if you see what I mean. Cassandra was bubbling under with a smile that warmed my heart. I really like this girl!

*****

25. Merry Joyce Respicio

Stunning on stage! That’s what Merry Joyce Respicio is! I previously said that she reminded me of Gem Padilla but in the fashion show, I started thinking Lou Bunyi. Anyway, Merry Joyce has brilliant cheekbones that make her look good even when her hair is pulled back in a bun. This is one beauty that really excites me!

*****

26. Anna Buquid

Anna Buquid enthralled the crowd with her savvy runway skills! Standing half an inch shy of 6 feet, this goddess had every eye in the coliseum trained on her as she dominated the stage…

*****

27. Valiry Vispo

Valiry Vispo started her walk with a dramatic pose that betrayed underlying grace. She is a joy to watch – full of confidence and so focused on giving her best to the crowd as she presented her Pitoy Moreno design.

*****

28. Mercegrace Racquel

Tiger, tiger, burning bright… that’s all I could think of when Mercegrace Racquel stepped on stage in this deep orange long gown. A smouldering beauty…

*****

29. Pauline Quintas

I just noticed that the mask (which is really cute) kind of looks like Pauline Quintas, what do you think? Pauline has that kind of charming beauty that you can’t say no to. Simple and sweet!

*****

30. Maria Teresa Gorgonio

Doesn’t this cool aqua shade look fabulous on Maria Teresa Gorgonio? I just love it on her and what I love even more is the intense expression on her face. She makes a perfect runway model!

*****

31. Mariel de Leon

Everybody loves Mariel de Leon with her baby doll face and sweet looks. But at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013, I finally saw the fierceness that I was looking for! There is a ‘leon‘ buried somewhere inside of her and I caught a glimpse of it during the show. Mariel de Leon… an ABQ favorite!

*****

32. Cindy Abundabar

Ahh… really like this Filipiniana design by Pitoy Moreno. It looks really good too on Cindy Abundabar who carried it with the sweet modesty of an old-fashioned Filipina.

*****

33. Parul Shah

Simplicity was Parul Shah‘s peg all night. This ABQ favorite glided across the stage with muted drama. A very different performance compared to the Press Presentation where she was flirty and bouncy. Nice to see the quiet and elegant side of Parul!

*****

34. Grace Yann Apuad

Grace Yann Apuad flowed on stage in this billowy Pitoy Moreno gown. And even if she was in all black, Grace’s smile lit up the stage – a beautiful contrast!

*****

35. KC Cajandig

Oh my, what a surprise! The girl who replaced Maria Teresa Fenger (who dropped out of the pageant due to photos in a men’s magazine) was fabulous on stage! Well, I really shouldn’t be surprised since KC Cajandig is a Supermodel runner-up. KC has this gorgeous mournful look that only top runway models know how to produce. She was one of the best, if not the best girl on stage at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Fashion Show!

*****

36. Angel May Villafuerte

Angel May Villafuerte smiled all the way, up and down the catwalk as she gracefully carried her lacy Pitoy Moreno gown. She does smile like an angel, doesn’t she?

*****

37. Ma. Teresita Alaine Baccay

Alaine Baccay was THE PERFECT girl for this beautiful ruffled serpentina gown! She looked like a queen with her high bun and delicately positioned hands. I did not realize Alaine could walk and look so regal. After this walk of hers, I am a FAN forever!!!

*****

38. Mariz Ong

Mariz Ong showed her reserved side in this eclectic creation by Pitoy Moreno. She looks so different when her hair is pulled back this way – I like this different look of hers! Very conservative yet so attractive…

*****

39. Mutya Datul

Mutya Datul was all smiles as she twirled around the stage in her Cinderella-like ballgown. She is really going for the crown, giving it her best, dimples and all! Bravo!!!

*****

40. Jan Helen Villanueva

This gown made me think of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Two things that I think Jan does NOT have.Unless it’s pride over wearing a Pitoy Moreno creation. But she does have the elegance to carry a gown as poofy as this. Excellent walk!

*****

41. Ariella Arida

Ariella Arida was stunning in this emerald gown which made me think of Origami art. She is just getting fiercer and fiercer as the competition heats up!

*****

42. Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo

Lovely sweet smile from Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo. This Pitoy Moreno gown becomes her, methinks.

*****

43 Rhea Nakpil

This particular Pitoy Moreno gown was a good choice for Rhea Nakpil – the butterfly sleeves give her a conservative appeal but the sash around the waist shows her sexy silhouette. Beautiful!

*****

44. Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom

Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom was reserved in this royal purple creation by Pitoy. Normally vivacious, Gabrielle this time around, showed us her regal self. But I could see that deep down inside that she wanted to unleash the butterfly in her!

*****

45. Imelda Schweighart

Is it Imelda Schweighart’s debut? It sure looks like it! She is only 17 after all! So young and so beautiful, this half-German sweetheart walked like a princess on stage and charmed us all!

*****

46. Amanda Noelle Navasero

Perfect styling on Amanda Noelle Navasero! And beautiful poise too. I did not know that she could move so elegantly. I could hardly take my eyes off of her! This serpentina gown suits her to a tee and I hope that on coronation night, she wears something just as fab…

*****

47. Aiyana Mickiewicz

This gown could have been created for Aiyana Mickiewicz – it suits her so well! The pink shade and feathers complement her fair complexion and the hair off to one side gives her a youthful appeal.

*****

48. Angeli Dione Gomez

Pretty Angeli! She gave us her best beauty queen smile as she paraded down the ramp in a pastel and blue Pitoy Moreno terno…

*****

49. Herlie Kim Artigue

A stunning creation by Pitoy Moreno on an equally stunning Herlie Kim Artigue. Gown and girl complement each other, I am impressed!

*****

50. Ma. Cristina Ann Pascual

Last girl in the line-up happens to be one of the more striking beauties in Bb. Pilipinas 2013. Krisma Pascual looked like she was born to wear this floral terno by Pitoy Moreno!

*****

Hope you enjoyed the photos we took at the Bb. Pilipinas 2013 fashion show! Thanks to my hubby Ron T. for taking all these great shots. Love you my sweetie…

Here is the complete list of winners at the Bb Pilipinas 2013 held at the Araneta Coliseum on April 14, 2013:

Bb. Pilipinas 2013 winners – L-R Pia Wurtzback (Runner-up), Cindy Miranda (Tourism), Ariella Arida (Universe), Bea Santiago (International) and Mut

Miss Universe Philippines 2013 – 41 Ariella Arida
Bb Pilipinas International 2013 – Bea Rose Santiago (ABQ’s favorite for International)
Bb Pilipinas Tourism 2013 – 16 Cindy Joanna Miranda (ABQ favorite)
Bb Pilipinas Supranational 2013 – 39 Mutya Datul (ABQ favorite for a crown)
1st Runner up – 15 Pia Wurtzbach (ABQ favorite)

The Top 15 of Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013

Top 15: (Red names are ABQ favorites)
41 Ariella Arida
45 Imelda Schweighart
39 Mutya Datul
34 Grace Apuad
13 Charmaine Elima
43 Rhea Nakpil
46 Amanda Noelle Navasero
22 Ellore Noelle Punzalan
20 Bea Santiago
16 Cindy Joanna Miranda
12 Camille Nazar
31 Mariel de Leon
25 Merry Joyce Respicio
15 Pia Wurtzbach
33 Parul Shah

Second set of special award winners L-R… Cindy Miranda, Bea Santiago, Ariella Arida, Mutya Datul, Imelda Schweighart, Nicoel Donesa,Pia Wurtzbach

Bb Creamsilk Beyond Beautiful: : 16 Cindy Miranda
Bb San Mig Fit & Sexy Body: 15 Pia Wurtzbach
Bb. Avon: 20 Bea Rose Santiago
Bb. Philippine Airlines: 4 Nicole Donesa
Bb. Pagcor: 45 Imelda Schweighart
Best in Swimsuit: 42 Ariella Arida
Best in Long Gown: 39 Mutya Datul

First Set of Special Award Winners at Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013 L-R Lourenz Remetillo, Alaine Baccay, Cindy Miranda, Mutya Datul, Ellore Noelle Punzalan and Anna Carmela Aquino

Miss Friendship: 21 Lourenz Grace Remetillo
Miss Talent: 10 Anna Carmela Aquino
Best in National Costume: 37 Alaine Baccay
Bulletin’s Readers Choice: 22 Ellore Noelle Punzalan
Bb. Petron: 16 Cindy Miranda
Miss Photogenic: 39 Mutya Datul (ABQ’s Choice for Photogenic!)

What a beautiful day it was at the poolside of Solaire, which turned out to be such a huuuuge by-the-sea getaway with gorgeous coconut trees and lots of pool space for you to swim in! I did not realize just how gorgeous this place was having only seen the casino and ballroom.

Well, it became an even prettier place with the 49 official candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2014 parading around in their Ricky Abad bikinis! Here are the photos I took… the girls that stood out are highlighted in RED… the girls highlighted in green were very intriguing…   ENJOY!

THE 11 ECO-WARRIOR BEAUTIES FROM SOUTH LUZON:

L-R – Kaycie Lyn Fajardo (Agoncillo, Batangas), Maria Jenny Bantug Gonzales (Cainta), Roanne Refrea (Cabuyao), Patrixia Sherly D. Santos (Daraga, Albay)

Kaycie Lyn Fajardo (Agoncillo, Batangas) - I’ve always been attracted to feline beauties and Kaycie Lyn is cat-like enough to rouse my interest. At 19 she is one of the youngest girls in the competition, she is a BS Customs Administration student at Adamson University.

Maria Jenny Bantug Gonzales (Cainta) - I can’t really explain it but she intrigues me like the way Janine Tugonon intrigued me the year she won. Because of that, this 24-year-old nurse gets a green mark from me!

Roanne Refrea (Cabuyao) – To me, this 24-year-old eco-warrior is a cross between MJ Lastimosa and Ali Forbes. Roanne’s college degree is International Business and Entrepreneurial Management.

Patrixia Sherly D. Santos (Daraga, Albay) - This municipality has been churning out beauties at an alarming rate! Alarming to the competition! Patrixia is only 21 years old and studying law at UP.

*****

L-R – Anna Czarina Regalado Buenviaje (Malinao, Albay), Nicole A. Grimalt (Rodriguez, Rizal), Christine Angel D. Ramos Alvaira (San Nicolas, Batangas) and Mary Rose Pujanes (Sto. Tomas, Batangas)

Anna Czarina Regalado Buenviaje (Malinao, Albay) – This is Anna Czarina’s second national pageant and she’s prettier than ever. Best asset is her smile! The 21-year-old archery buff is a Broadcast grad from Bicol University.

Nicole A. Grimalt (Rodriguez, Rizal) – Ah… a milkbath beauty. Love the way her mahogany tresses make her porcelain skin glow. Nicole happens to be Bb. Rodriguez 2012, is 19-years old and studying at the Our Lady of Fatima University.

Christine Angel D. Ramos Alvaira (San Nicolas, Batangas) – Christine Angel is one of the tallest girls in MPE 2014. This Fashion and Merchandising student of De La Salle College of St. Benilde is only 21 and is always ready with the sweetest smile!

Mary Rose Pujanes (Sto. Tomas, Batangas) – Also on her second national beauty pageant, 21-year-old Mary Rose is a treat for my hungry eyes! She is muy simpatica. The 2011 winner of the Miss Batangas title studied Accounting at First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities.

*****

L-R – Diane Carmela Querrer (Tanauan), Anna Carmela Aquino (Taytay, Rizal) and Joselle Mariano (Trece Martires, Cavite)

Diane Carmela Querrer (Tanauan) – Ooooh… seems like her disqualification from Bb. Pilipinas this year (reportedly due to height issues) made her shine instead of whine! Now, Diane Querrer is turning out to be a tough contender for the MPE 2014 crown. This Broadcast graduate from UP Diliman is getting a lot of attention folks and I think its because she’s blossomed. Diane first competed in Miss Philippines Earth a few years back. Now that she’s 25 and about to age out, she’s taking one more aim at the MPE title!

Anna Carmela Aquino (Taytay, Rizal) - I’m pleased to note that this 23-year-old High School Math Teacher has more curves than angles, geometrically speaking. Love her body, one of the few bods that I really like in MPE 2014. Also loved her styling here.

Joselle Mariano (Trece Martires, Cavite) – Joselle brings a personal sun around with her wherever she goes! Her smile is positively powerful just like her swimmer’s shoulders. This Tourism student is only 18 years old…

*****

The 11 South Luzon Eco-Warriors in Miss Philippines Earth 2014

Shooting out of the crowd like a weed is Christine Angel D. Ramos Alvaira of San Nicolas, Batangas. She’s 4th from the right. That kind of height and beauty is prized among beauty queen hopefuls and could earn her a berth in the semi-finals.

Here is the complete list of winners at the Bb Pilipinas 2013 held at the Araneta Coliseum on April 14, 2013:

Bb. Pilipinas 2013 winners – L-R Pia Wurtzback (Runner-up), Cindy Miranda (Tourism), Ariella Arida (Universe), Bea Santiago (International) and Mut

Miss Universe Philippines 2013 – 41 Ariella Arida
Bb Pilipinas International 2013 – Bea Rose Santiago (ABQ’s favorite for International)
Bb Pilipinas Tourism 2013 – 16 Cindy Joanna Miranda (ABQ favorite)
Bb Pilipinas Supranational 2013 – 39 Mutya Datul (ABQ favorite for a crown)
1st Runner up – 15 Pia Wurtzbach (ABQ favorite)

The Top 15 of Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013

Top 15: (Red names are ABQ favorites)
41 Ariella Arida
45 Imelda Schweighart
39 Mutya Datul
34 Grace Apuad
13 Charmaine Elima
43 Rhea Nakpil
46 Amanda Noelle Navasero
22 Ellore Noelle Punzalan
20 Bea Santiago
16 Cindy Joanna Miranda
12 Camille Nazar
31 Mariel de Leon
25 Merry Joyce Respicio
15 Pia Wurtzbach
33 Parul Shah

Second set of special award winners L-R… Cindy Miranda, Bea Santiago, Ariella Arida, Mutya Datul, Imelda Schweighart, Nicoel Donesa,Pia Wurtzbach

Bb Creamsilk Beyond Beautiful: : 16 Cindy Miranda
Bb San Mig Fit & Sexy Body: 15 Pia Wurtzbach
Bb. Avon: 20 Bea Rose Santiago
Bb. Philippine Airlines: 4 Nicole Donesa
Bb. Pagcor: 45 Imelda Schweighart
Best in Swimsuit: 42 Ariella Arida
Best in Long Gown: 39 Mutya Datul

First Set of Special Award Winners at Bb. Pilipinas Gold 2013 L-R Lourenz Remetillo, Alaine Baccay, Cindy Miranda, Mutya Datul, Ellore Noelle Punzalan and Anna Carmela Aquino

Miss Friendship: 21 Lourenz Grace Remetillo
Miss Talent: 10 Anna Carmela Aquino
Best in National Costume: 37 Alaine Baccay
Bulletin’s Readers Choice: 22 Ellore Noelle Punzalan
Bb. Petron: 16 Cindy Miranda
Miss Photogenic: 39 Mutya Datul (ABQ’s Choice for Photogenic!)