Why Didn't Miss Philippines Win?

Miss Universe 2009 Pageant has come and gone and I am thoroughly disappointed that Miss Philippines, Pamela Bianca Manalo, did not win the crown. Miss Venezuela, Stefania Fernandez, was hailed Miss Universe 2009 in the contest held at the Atlantis on Paradise Island in the Bahamas last August 23, 2009.

Last year, Miss Universe 2008 was also the Venezuelan Dayana Mendoza, making this their second consecutive win, and their fifth, ever since the pageant was started 58 years ago.

I am disappointed because Miss Manalo is one of the Philippine candidates whom I can truly say is every inch a Filipina-her looks, color, manners, and style. She is also very beautiful and intelligent, and very statuesque at 5'10". She was one of the early crowd favorites so it was really a surprise that she did not win even a single award. Nevertheless, as a consolation, two Asians won special awards. Miss Congeniality went to Wang Jingyao of China, and Miss Photogenic when to Chutima Durongdej of Thailand. I am saying this because it seems that this year's winners are mostly Latin American beauties. I have noticed that sometimes there is a certain "flavor" for the race that will win in a certain year.

Anyway, even if Bianca Manalo did not win, I am still proud of her because she has carried herself well and has represented the country well. I just wonder though when we will have another international title holder. Our last was Lara Quigaman who won Miss International last year. But for Miss Universe, I believe it was still Miriam Quiambao who last brought fame to the country with her first runner title.

Nevertheless, congratulations Bianca.

No I am not contesting the judges' decision. That is not my point at all. I just wanted Miss Philippines to win. But well, as in any contest, there is a winner. And those who did not win are not exactly losers. They did not just get the crown but they are already winners in their own rights.