Beyond the Crown: The Secrets Behind the Philippines' Pageant Success

gemma cruz araneta miss international 1964 philippines
photo: Gemma Teresa Guerrero Cruz (Miss International 1964), the first Filipina to won an International title.


Imagine a stunning Filipina pageant contestant, wearing her crown with grace, standing tall on an international stage, dazzling audiences worldwide. But what lies beneath that crown? While many see the glitter and glamour, the truth is, the success of the Philippines in beauty pageants goes far beyond mere appearances. So, what are the secrets that propel these queens to victory?


 The Heart of the Matter

For years, the Philippines has emerged as a powerhouse in global pageantry, with numerous titles under its belt. You might wonder, "What sets them apart? Is it just luck or beauty?" The reality is much deeper. It’s about hard work, preparation, and a cultural ethos that champions resilience and excellence.

However, let’s confront a common misconception: some people believe that beauty pageants are outdated or too focused on physical appearance. While looks do play a role, modern pageants highlight character, intelligence, and social advocacy. If you have doubts, consider this: many accomplished queens have leveraged their platforms to address important social issues, demonstrating that beauty can indeed be a catalyst for change.


 Unveiling the Secrets

So, what enables Filipina contestants to consistently shine on the global stage? Here are the key factors that contribute to their success:

1. **Rigorous Training**: Preparation is essential. From runway coaching to public speaking and talent performances, contestants engage in comprehensive training. This dedication equips them with the skills necessary to excel under pressure. There are numerous training camps focuses on comprehensive coaching, pasarela (runway walk), grooming and styling, confindence building and physical fitness.
catriona gray binibining pilipinas 2018 miss universe 2018 training
photo: Catriona Gray, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2018 prepares for her Miss Universe stint. (photo courtesy of BPCI)


Many successful beauty queens attribute their achievements to the training they received at camps. For instance, Catriona Gray, Miss Universe 2018, honed her skills and confidence through rigorous training and mentorship. Her journey is a testament to the impact of dedicated preparation.

2. **Cultural Pride**: Filipino contestants often celebrate their heritage, showcasing traditional clothing and values. This connection to their culture resonates with judges and audiences, adding richness to their presentations.

3. **Community Support**: The Philippines has a strong culture of community and family support. Contestants often receive encouragement from friends, family, and even past titleholders, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation.

miss universe philippines 2023 candidates delegates contestants
photo: Miss Universe Philippines 2023 delegates.


4. **Strategic Advocacy**: Many Filipina queens prioritize social issues that resonate with them, whether it’s education, health, or environmental matters. By integrating their advocacy into their pageant journey, they create a meaningful impact and gain respect.

5. **Resilience and Mindset**: Perhaps the most vital aspect is the mindset. Filipina contestants learn to confront challenges directly and see setbacks as chances for growth. This resilience is evident in their performances.


 How to Apply These Lessons?



So, whether you’re an aspiring contestant or just curious about what makes the Philippines a pageant powerhouse, you can draw inspiration from these insights:

Invest in Your Skills: Just like pageant contestants, refine your talents and cultivate skills that distinguish you, whether in public speaking, performance, or advocacy.

Embrace Your Identity: Honor your culture and values. Authenticity resonates with people and can help you stand out in any competitive arena.

Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends and mentors. Having a community behind you can make a significant difference.

Stay Committed to Your Cause: Find a cause you’re passionate about and get involved. Making a positive impact can enhance your presence, whether in pageantry or any other field.

 Wrapping Up



The secret to the Philippines’ pageant success go well beyond the crown. It’s about preparation, cultural pride, community support, advocacy, and resilience. As the world observes these queens shine, remember that anyone can draw inspiration from their journey. Embrace your individuality, invest in yourself, and you might just discover your own crown—whatever that may mean for you. Are you ready to take on the world? The stage is yours!

Harnaaz Sandhu from India was Crowned Miss Universe 2021

miss universe 2021 winner india harnaaz sandhu
21 year old Miss India, Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu was crowned as the new Miss Universe 2021 held last December 12 at the Universe Dome in Eilat, Israel where 80 delegates around the world competed for the coveted title. The outgoing Miss Universe 2020, Andrea Meza from Mexico crowned her successor.

Harnaaz was born and raised in Guruharsai in Firozepur, Punjab in a Sikh family. She attended Kaalia Public School and the Post Graduate Government College for Girls, both in Chandigarh. Prior to becoming Miss Universe, Sandhu works as a model and at the same time was pursuing a master's degree in public administration.

Sandhu was not new in pageantry. She began competing as a teenager, winning titles such as Miss Guruharsahai 2016, Miss Ferozepur 2017 and Miss Max Emerging Star India 2018. After winning the title of Femina Miss India Punjab 2019, Sandhu competed in Femina Miss India, where she ultimately placed in the Top 12. And in 2021, she finally won the Miss Diva Universe crown which earned her the right to represent India in Miss Universe contest.

miss universe 2021 top 5 finalists
Finished as the 1st run-up was Nadia Ferreira from Paraguay, while South Africa's Lalela Mswane placed as the 2nd run-up. Completing the top 5 finalists were Valeria Ayos from Colombia and Beatrice Luigi Gomez from the Philippines.

Top 10 semi-finalists finalists were Thessaly Zimmerman (Aruba), Clemence Botino (France), Michelle Marie Colon (Puerto Rico), Chantel O'Brian (The Bahamas) and Elle Smith (USA).

Completing the top 16 quarter finalists were Emma Collingridge (Great Britain), Juri Watanabe (Japan), Brenda Smith (Panama), Nandita Banna (Singapore), Luiseth Materan (Venezuela) and Nguyen Huynh Kim Duyen (Vietnam) who won the fan vote.

The Best National Costume award was given to Miss Nigeria, Maristella Okpala. Chantel O'Brian from the Bahamas won the Spirit of Carnival Award. While Miss Chile, Antonia Figueroa won the Social Impact Award.
miss universe 2021 winner india harnaaz sandhu

Elle Smith is the new Miss USA 2021 from Kentucky

miss usa 2021 winner kentucky elle smith
Miss Kentucky, Ellen Elizabeth "Elle" Smith from Germantown was crowned as the new Miss USA 2021 held last November 29 at the Paradise Cove Theater, River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was crowned by the outgoing Miss USA 2020, Asya Branch.

Elle was born in Springfield, Ohio and graduated from Shawnee High School in 2016, where she was an honors student involved in choir, orchestra, volleyball, and drama. Afterwards, she moved to Lexington, Kentucky to enroll in the University of Kentucky, graduating with a degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in political science in 2020. After completing her degree, this achiever became an on-air reporter with WHAS-TV in Louisville, Kentucky, covering Southern Indiana within the Louisville metropolitan area.

Soon after her crowning, Smith will fly to Eilat, Israel to represent the United States in the Miss Universe 2021 finals on December 12.

Miss North Dakota - Caitlyn Vogel, Miss Florida – Ashley Carino and Miss Illinois – Sydni Bennett were the 1st, 2nd and 3rd runners-up respectively.

Completing the top 8 finalists were:
  • Maryland – Layilah Nasser
  • North Carolina – Madison Bryant
  • South Carolina – Marley Stokes
  • Texas – Victoria Hinojosa

    Rest of the top 16 semi-finalists:
  • Kansas – Gracie Hunt
  • Louisiana – Tanya Crowe
  • Mississippi – Bailey Anderson
  • Nebraska – Erika Etzelmiller
  • South Dakota – Caroline Pettey
  • Tennessee – Elizabeth Pistole
  • Utah – JessiKate Riley
  • Virginia – Christina Thompson

    The winner of the Best State Costume was Elizabeth Pistole from Tennessee. Followed by Utah's JessiKate Riley in 2nd place and Albreuna Gonzaque from Oklahoma in 3rd place.
  • Florida's Breanna Myles Crowned Miss Teen USA 2021

    miss teen usa 2021 winner florida breanna myles
    18 year old Breanna Myles representing Florida was crowned as the new Miss Teen USA 2021 held at the Paradise Cove Theater, River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma last November 27.

    Breanna was from Port St. Lucie. She made history as the very first Miss Teen USA titleholder from Florida.

    In 1st Runner-Up place was Miss District of Columbia, Hannah Gilliard. 2nd Runner-Up was Miss Texas, Landry Davis. Placed as 3rd Runner-Up was Miss Pennsylvania, Yvonne Burke. And finally, the 4th Runner-Up position was given to Miss Utah, Ayzjiahna Wood.

    Completing the Top 16 Semi-finalists were:
  • California – Cameron Doan
  • Georgia – Liza Greenberg §
  • Iowa – Angel Strong
  • Louisiana – Gracie Petry
  • Maryland – Maria Derisavi
  • Mississippi – Mattie Grace Morris
  • Missouri – Anna Long
  • Nebraska – Daisy Sudderth
  • South Carolina – Augusta Roach
  • Wisconsin – Shreya Gundelly
  • Wyoming – Teryn Thatcher

    The winner of Best State Costume was Ayzjiahna Wood from Utah. New Mexico's Emily Lehr and Washington's Novalee Lewis was 2nd and 3rd place respectively. Miss Indiana, Lexi Gryszowka won Miss Photogenic award, while Miss Nebraska, Daisy Sudderth was voted as Miss Congeniality by her co-candidates.
  • miss teen usa 2021 winner florida breanna myles

    Destiny Wagner of Belize is Miss Earth 2021

    miss earth 2021 winner belize destiny wagner
    The Miss Earth 2021 celebrating it's 21st edition was held on November 21 where 89 gorgeous candidates participated. This is the second time that the pre-pageant activities and coronation night was conducted virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

    25 year old Destiny Wagner, Miss Belize from Punta Gorda eventually won the title as the new Miss Earth 2021.

    Miss United States, Marisa Butler was declared as Miss Earth – Air. Romina Denecken of Chile was Miss Earth – Water. And Jareerat Petsom from Thailand is Miss Earth – Fire.

    Completing the top 8 were:
  • Netherlands – Saartje Langstraat
  • Philippines – Naelah Alshorbaji
  • Russia – Anastasia Almyasheva
  • Venezuela – María Daniela Velasco

    Rest of the top 20 semi-finalists:
  • Belarus – Maria Perviy
  • Belgium – Selena Ali
  • Botswana – Mosa Dolly Balesamang
  • Colombia – Paulina Ruiz
  • Czech Republic – Adéla Štroffeková
  • Denmark – Cecilie Dissing
  • Ghana – Nylla Oforiwaa Amparbeng
  • Indonesia – Monica Khonado
  • Malaysia – Nisha Thayananthan
  • New Zealand – Eva Wilson
  • Nigeria – Christine-Telfer Edet Ugah
  • South Africa – Nompumelelo Maduna


  • Valentina Espinosa Guzman wins Senorita Colombia 2021

    senorita miss colombia supranational 2021 valentina espinosa guzman
    Miss Bolivar, Valentina Espinosa Guzman won the title of Senorita Colombia 2021 during a live event held last November 14 at the Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala Convention Center in Cartagena. She was crowned by the outgoing queen, Senorita Colombia 2020, Maria Fernanda Aristizabal.

    Valentina works as a professional in Social Communication and Journalism and also a model and presenter. She will be the official representative of the country at the next edition of Miss Supranational pageant in Poland.

    Miss Quindio, Natalia López finished as the 1st run-up. While in 2nd run-up position was Miss Huila, Karen Ortíz. Miss Choco, Lucia Cuesta and Miss Sucre, Yamile Lahud finished as the 3rd and 4th runners-up respectively.
    senorita miss colombia supranational 2021 valentina espinosa guzman

    Miss Ceara, Teresa Santos crowned as Miss Universo Brasil 2021

    miss universe universo brasil brazil 2021 winner teresa santos
    23 year old Teresa Stela Barbosa Silva Santos representing Ceara was crowned as Miss Universo Brasil 2021 during a beauty pageant held last November 7, aboard the cruise ship the MSC Preziosa.

    Teresa is a model, psychology student and a businesswoman who stands 1.72m tall. She will now represent Brazil at the upcoming Miss Universe 2021 in Eilat, Israel on December.

    Miss Piaui, Gabriela Lacerda finished as 1st run-up, while Miss Sergipe, Carol Valenca placed as 2nd run-up.

    miss universe universo brasil brazil 2021 winner teresa santos

    Senorita Panama 2021 winner is Brenda Smith Lezama

    senorita señorita miss panama universe 2021 winner brenda smith lezama katheryn yejas cecilia medina
    Señorita Panama 2021 which celebrates it's 55th edition was held last November 7 at the Hotel Whyndham Convention Center,in Panama City where 29 gorgeous contestants participated.

    The the end of the event, the 26 year old Senorita Panama Centro, Brenda Smith Lezama eventually won the crown and the title of Senorita Panama 2021. She stands 171cm tall and has a degree in Journalism and Cultural Studies and is an activist and a lecturer. She will now be the official representative of Panama in Miss Universe 2021 competition in Eilat, Israel on December 12.

    Meanwhile, during the same event, Katheryn Yejas representing Taboga was crowned as Miss Grand Panama 2022. She will enter the Miss Grand International contest next year.

    Named as Miss Supranational Panama 2022 was Senorita Casco Antiguo, Cecilia Medina. She will compete in Miss Supranational 2022 representing her country.

    Miss Pedasi, Nicole Snyder and Miss Isla Colon, Hillary Watson were the 1st and 2nd runners-up respectively.

    Completing the top 10 were:
  • Chiriqui - Karol Suira
  • Isla del Rey – Ariela Combe
  • Natá – Amileris Vega
  • Panamá Oeste – Julia Marina Leong
  • Santa Catalina – Ana Sofía Effio

    Rest of the top 16:
  • Colon - Valeria Solanilla
  • Costa del Este – Valentina D’ Alessandro
  • Isla Barro Colorado – Guadalupe Ureña
  • Isla Coiba – Michelle Cuevas
  • Santa Fe – Joselyn Aizprua
  • Santiago – Yolany Canto
  • senorita señorita miss panama universe 2021 winner brenda smith lezama katheryn yejas cecilia medina

    Miss Universe China 2021 is Shi Yin Yang

    miss universe china 2021 shi yan yang
    Shi Yin Yang, a 20 year old beauty from Beijing was crowned as the new Miss Universe China 2021 during a ceremony held last November 7 in Beijing.

    A university student studying social communication, Shi Yin Yang will now be the official representative of China at the upcoming Miss Universe 2021 pageant in Eilat, Israel on December 12, 2021.
    miss universe china 2021 shi yan yang

    Andreina Martinez wins Miss Republica Dominicana Universo 2021

    andreina martinez miss republica dominicana dominican republic universo universe 2021

    24 year old Andreina Martinez Founier-Rosado representing the Dominican community in the USA was crowned as the new Miss Republica Dominicana Universo 2021 held last November 7 at the Salon de Eventos Sambil in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. She was crowned by the outgoing Miss Republica Dominicana Universo 2020, Kimberly Jimenez.

    A psychology and Latin American studies graduate, Andreina will be the official representative of the Dominican Republic at the upcoming Miss Universe 2021 pageant in Israel later this year.

    Finished as the 1st runner-up was Miss Azua, Debbie Aflalo. She compete at the next edition of Reina Hispanoamericana contest. 2nd runner-up place went to Miss La Vega, Yamilex Hernandez. While the 3rd runner-up position was given to Miss Samana, Elianny Capellan. And finally, the 4th runner-up place went to Miss La Romana, Erika Silverio.

    Completing the top 10 were:

  • Distrito Nacional – Yeimi Hernández
  • María Trinidad Sánchez – Hilda Puntiel
  • Puerto Plata – Silvana Dominicci
  • Santiago – Leslye Olivo
  • Valverde – Nicole Jimeno
  • andreina martinez miss republica dominicana dominican republic universo universe 2021

    Maureen Montagne from the Philippines wins Miss Globe 2021 title

    miss globe 2021 winner philippines maureen montagne

    28 year old Miss Philippines, Maureen Montagne was crowned as the new Miss Globe 2021 held last November 5 at the Opera Theater in Tirana, Albania.

    Montagne is no stranger to beauty contests and is considered as a pageant veteran. Miss Arizona USA, Miss Eco-International first runner-up, Mutya ng Pilipinas and Binibining Pilipinas were some of her beauty titles to name a few.

    A total of 40 international beauties competed for the crown. Finishing as First Runner-Up was Ester Ogechi Gabriel (Nigeria), Second Runner-Up Melike Bali (Turkey), Third Runner-Up Jhosskaren Carrizo Smo (Venezuela) and Fourth Runner-Up Hailey Hamelin-Wilson (Canada).

    Philippines' Cindy Obeñita bagged the Miss Intercontinental 2021 Crown

    miss intercontinental 2021 cinderella cindy faye obenita philippines bb binibining pilipinas
    25 year old Cinderella Faye Obenita won the title and the crown of Miss Intercontinental 2021 held at the Sharm Museum in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt last October 29 where 72 stunning delegates around the world participated.

    Placed as the 1st run-up was Miss Mexico, Paulina Uceda Escorcia. In 2nd run-up position was Romy Simpkins from United Kingdom. Seychelles' Kelly-Mary Anette, Canada's Kaitlyn Linda Li and Colombia's Maria Paula Castillo Lopez ended up as 3rd, 4th and 5th runners-up respectively.

    Completing the top 20 semi-finalists were:
  • Germany - Luisa Rüger
  • Crimea - Anna Senkovets
  • Cuba - Yeniffer Pileta Marín
  • Guatemala - Raquel María Alejandra Escalante Chacón
  • Indonesia - Bella Aprilia Sant
  • Italy - Anastasia Addorisio
  • Malaysia - Poorani Rajoo
  • Mauricious - Laetitia Prefumo
  • Netherlands - Suzette van der Pol
  • Paraguay - Fatima Lorena Rodríguez Benítez
  • Peru - Leslye Leonela López Castillo
  • Czech Republic - Veronika Šmídová
  • South Africa - Lesedi Lerato Hlatywayo
  • Thailand - Nutnicha Srithongsuk

    Continental Queens
  • Africa: Seychelles - Kelly-Mary Anette
  • Asia and Oceania: Philippines - Cinderella Faye Obeñita
  • Europe: United Kingdom - Romy Simpkins
  • North America: Mexico - Paulina Uceda Escorcia
  • South America: Colombia - María Paula Castillo López


  • Andreia Muhitu is Miss Supranational Angola 2018

    miss supranational angola 2018 winner strabismus albino albinism andreia muhitu

    22 year old Andreia Muhitu was crowned Miss Supranational Angola 2018. Her victory made history in her country as she is the first woman with Albinism to win a beauty pageant in her country. Muhitu hails from the Cuando Cubango region in her country. Despite receiving lots of support, some negative comments from fans questioning her beauty (on her official photo) were posted to which Muhitu responded:

    “Appearances are deceiving. I like the picture, it's me! I have strabismus, people have strabismus. And if I have it in the picture I must have loved it. I will not be the world's first cross eyed model. You are entitled to your opinion, and I am entitled to mine and mine says it all… I wouldn't compete if I didn't believe I could win.”

    During an interview on national television, she described herself as a strong person who is ready to face all the negative comments that will come her way. She vowed that during her reign she will work on a campaign against discrimination that albinos suffer in the communities where they find themselves. She spoke out against the maltreatment that some people with albinism have to endure, a practice which she considers very negative and inhumane.

    "I've been discriminated against in my life. That is why it is this cause that I will defend in my country. People should not be condemned by their skin tone or gender, and I plead for people to change their behavior in order for us to have a better social coexistence based on respect for difference.”

    Andreia will travel to Poland to compete at the Miss Supranational 2018 pageant on December.

    miss supranational angola 2018 winner strabismus albino albinism andreia muhitumiss supranational angola 2018 winner strabismus albino albinism andreia muhitu

    "To God be the Glory".