Upon arrival, some Filipinos that met her at the airport said she's so beautiful, adding, "Panalo na tayo (We will surely win)."
Before she left, Ara (as she's fondly called) was interviewed by Karen Davila on ANC (ABS-CBN News Channel) and it was pointed out that one of her weaknesses was her inability to express herself in English and she might need an interpreter for the final question-and-answer portion of the contest.
In answer, Ara said that there's no need, as fluency is not actually a factor as Latina beauties could not even finish a sentence in English yet they've won in the past.
Her remark drew flak from a radio-TV host in limbo but still continue to broadcast by phone patch. Ara was, of course, defended not only by her supporters but also those who said that DJ Mo Twister took her remark out of context.
The Philippine candidate to the world's most prestigious beauty contest may not be as fluid in expressing herself in English but she's passable. Certainly, there's no need to have an interpreter, too, since Filipinos are known for their facility of the English language and the Philippines holds the distinction as the third largest English-speaking in the world.
A BS Chemistry graduate of University of the Philippines-Los Banos, the 24-year-old lass from Alaminos, Laguna is one of the frontrunners in the contest, not only in the stats of Missosology.Org and Beauty Pageant Grand Slam but also the personal choice of beauty pageant aficionados worldwide.
Before the contestants arrived starting October 20, Miss Philippines was also one of the five most anticipated candidates, along with Miss Israel, Miss France, Miss Great Britain and Miss USA.
There are 89 candidates in this year's Miss Universe. In photos shared by Missosology, the Asian beauties look like they are bonding well. Delegates from China, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines have been sharing table, and sisterhood among them was evident in their mien.
Reportedly, there are candidates of Filipino descent. Miss Canada Rizza Santos is pure Filipino by blood. Although she was born and grew up in Canada, both her parents are Filipinos. She actually had a brief stint in the local entertainment scene and already represented Canada in other international pageants.
Another candidate said to have Filipino blood is Miss Gabon. The other one, Miss Guam.
Filipinos are hopeful that Ara will get the third Miss Universe crown for the country, after Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973.
For the past three years, the Philippines had been graciously placing in the Top 5. Venus Raj was fourth runner-up in 2010, Shamcey Supsup was third runner-up in 2011 and Janine Tugonon placed second to Miss USA last year.
Earlier in September, Mutya Johanna Datul won the Miss Supranational title in Minsk, Belarus and Megan Lynne Young was proclaimed Miss World in Bali Indonesia. Megan is the first Filipina to win the title in the 63-year-history of the contest that originated in England. Gwendolyn Ruais was first runner-up in 2011. Ruffa Gutierrez was second runner-up in 1993. Evangeline Pascual was first runner-up in 1973 and could have been proclaimed Miss World when Marjorie Wallace of USA was dethroned but due to some commitments Ms. Pascual did not go to London anymore to claim her throne.
The earthquake that devastated Bohol and Cebu brought much sadness to Filipinos and other people in the world, since centuries-old churches--showcase of Filipino heritage--tumbled like lego blocks. Even the renowned Chocolate Hills were not spared. Some cracked like chocolate candies.
Amid the tragedies, disasters and scandals in government, Filipinos are praying that something good happens again soonest to bring smile to the weary and tired countenance of a resilient people.
Ariella Arida could be just that something good.
No comments:
Post a Comment