CAMBODIA, LAOS, PUERTO RICO, JAPAN, CHILE, PERU, MALTA, INDIA, VIETNAM
People might be surprised on why Guyana made the cut. But, the Miss Universe Organization has already evolved. We saw the likes of Canada, Kenya, and Haiti last edition making waves. Why? It is because of their stories and the way they convey their messages. And I believe, Rafieya’s voice will also be heard come finals night.
Trained by my good friend Macoy, Rafieya wowed me with her impressive Beauty With A Purpose project during her Miss World stint. What’s amazing about her is that she continues to inspire and empower other women who suffered or still suffering from domestic violence.
I may not be a fan of her evening gown and her style during the prelims, still, I amnot counting out the fact that she did well in the closed door interview. Rafieya reminds of Miss Universe Philippines 2008 Jennifer Barrientos. The best of luck Rafieya.
Another queen that impressed me during the prelims was Miss Angola. We was polished, poised and has a good pasarela.
Unlike other women in colors, Lauriela has this beautiful engaging face. She reminds me of Yendi Phillipps. Her good command in her catwalk made me notice her right away. In both rounds during the prelims, she was consistently delivering and even made me gasp with her exquisite evening dress.
After Leila’s victory in 2011, Angola seems to be in the right track this year as Lauriela is likely to pull off a pleasant surprise.
Girl crush. That face alone is to die for. What a great combination indeed. At one point, she is giving me a younger version of Brooke Lee (Miss Universe 1997). But, Malaysia is still considered as a weak sash in Miss Universe. If only she was wearing for example a Miss USA or a Miss Philippines sash, for sure, she will be considered as a big threat.
I do not know, but I am truly glued with Samantha. She is an epitome of resiliency and has proven the universe that we can all achieve our dreams. Her own story inspires me. We shared almost the same story- hers not meeting his dad and was left by her mother in a foster care when she was two, while me, never met my dad until I was 22, and my mom left me to my grandparents so that she can work abroad.
Despite of us growing without our real biological parents next to us, it doesn’t hindered us to be the person we are today. We appreciate life more and even the little things are valuable to us. Samantha first tried her luck in pageants in 2013. She was in the top 8. After four years, she became victorious. As a model, International actress, and now a beauty queen, she can be a wonderful brand ambassador for Miss Universe.
During the whole course of the competition, I observed her as fun loving, very approachable and friendly with the other girls. And I believe that is very important. Her red sexy gown in the prelims gave me a modern Jessica Rabbit vibe, proving that she can also be sultry. Her swimsuit presentation is above average. Her face and her story are her biggest selling point. I truly hope Malaysia will place this year. I even want to see an underdog with a poor sash to win Miss Universe.
Ohlala, our 2015 Reina Hispanoamericana winner in is the house. Funny how Demi is next to a well experienced tall pageant queen. And, Sofia herself is not standing down. Next to Miss South Africa (Demi Peters), Sofia was ruthless. Hahaha
The prelims made Sofia really shine in both categories. As a seasoned pageant veteran, it is inevitable not to steal the show and yes, she managed to convince the universe that Spain also unstoppable.
Spain’s one and only win at Miss Universe was in 1974. A decade ago, we saw two top 3/2 placements in 1999 and 2000. In 2013, Patricia Rodriguez almost made it too, but fell short to Gabriela Isler. This year, if Sofia will continue peaking her game, I can very well see her in the top 6 or/and even in the top 3. So the best of luck Reina Sofia.
Ksenia. A name that reminds me of Miss World 2008. But this time, we are witnessing the blossoming of another Ksenia. She might be just the first runner in Miss Russia, but I believe she’s the right girl for Miss Universe. Nevertheless, it’s a good placement.
Fifteen years ago, Russia finally scored as Miss Universe. But Oxana’s journey ended only after few months. In 2008, we saw a big comeback from this country, but again fell short. Is Ksenia about to pick up what Oxana left behind in 2002?
Last edition, Europe made a big comeback when Iris finally scored a win. Let’s forget about 2002, and let’s remember 1989 and 1990 where Holland (now The Netherlands) and Norway claimed the Miss Universe titles. If it’s going to be a back to back European crowning, why not with Miss Russia this year?
Ksenia’s performances in the prelims were subtle yet commendable. I am not a fan of her styling that night as I know she is indeed a goddess. It was matronly, and failed to bring out her beautiful features. But I am still definitely not counting her out just yet. I do not know what the judges are looking for, but Ksenia is like an expensive diamond ready to be encrusted. It can also tighten MUO’s relationship with the Russians.
In addition, Russia has hosted the 2013 Miss Universe. One of the best editions I might say. Crowning another Russian could open doors for another Miss Universe hosting. But, let’s not forget that Ksenia is indeed worth it. If she wins, it is not because Russia is a target market. It’s high time to crown a real goddess. And I believe we are seeing one.
Colombia is enjoying their second honeymoon this decade with Miss Universe. Remember in the 90’s wherein we saw them in the top 3 for three consecutive years? Since Paulina’s victory in 2014, we almost saw a back to back win in 2015, and last January, Andrea Tovar finished at third. This year, yet another Colombian queen is about to rock the boat.
Despite of the fact that some fans are predicting Laura to get the “El Tocuyo” award, I do not think it will be happening. Yes, people around the pageant world made a big fuss about her video in social media, but, I do not think we should always take things seriously. I think, the MUO is still picking up the pieces after the 2015’s fiasco. And to me, Laura is a strong candidate.
Laura is giving me this younger Cindy Crawford vibe. Her evening gown presentation is playful and very Latina. While during the Swimsuit segment, she sizzled it with her sexy figures and confidence. So yeah, Colombia in my book is still very up for a good tight fight. And I am closely watching her.
Yet we saw another very Venezuelan presentation in the prelims through this exquisite queen from Monagas. Keysi’s moves were all on point, and that very strong stage presence was truly felt. It is as if she is uttering, “This is how you do it bitches. Watch and learn!”.
During the Evening Gown segment, her Venezuelan glamazonian features were tonned down, making her more alluring, softer-looking, cultured and poised. That white ensemble is just right,- clean looking and very queenly. During the swimsuit round, she was closing the show with a big bang. Geeez, how can I not be a fan of these Venezuelan queens. If there’s a Venezuelan flavor for noodles, ice cream or even pop corn, I’m definitely buying it.
Venezuela has been very successful in Miss Universe. After a back to back finish in 2008 - 2009, they scored another win in 2013. But is USA ready to give Venezuela a free-pass? Or USA will have to win first before allowing another win for Venezuela? Let’s wait and see if Venezuela can equal USA’s present status with eight Miss Universe wins.
Me and my fellow pageant expert friends would have our Facebook group chats and from time to time, we would choose our nicknames. Last year, while everyone felt Iris Mittanaere was not a front runner, I chose Iris as my nickname, and she won. This year, I chose Denisse Franco. Why? Because the first time I laid my eyes on her, I was already blown away with her beauty. In some angles, she is giving me this Ximena vibe. Sometimes, I can see Priscila Perales vibe in her. Nevertheless, both are gorgeous Mexican goddesses.
So, we all know that Vegas has been kind to the Mexicans. Two of their queens were crowned in Las Vegas. The years 1991 and 2010 were their lucky years, while 1996, 2012 and 2015 were not so giving to them. Is 2017 another winning year for Mexico? We can only hope for the best and what is best, right?
Regarding her preliminary presentations, she nailed both rounds. She has a stronger swimsuit presentation in my opinion than her evening gown performance. But, she did not disappoint me. In fact, she proved everyone that she is indeed a front runner. She was just playing her cards thoughtfully, and giving us the right amount of attitude. I’m glad Lupita was there supporting her muse amd shrugging off news about misunderstandings with Denisse.
In the end, I am still feeling positive about Denisse’s chances. She has this youthful vibe that is both engaging and infectious. Still rooting for you my girl. Just change your gown. Not really a fan of that white ensemble.
Another country in Asia that I am so glued about is Miss Indonesia. Well, Bunga is very tall, poised and is carrying herself superbly in the competition. Her everyday looks, dresses and hair styles were all on point. She looks rich, classy and sophisticated. Kudos.
Watching her in the Prelims, made me smile. She delivered one of the best presentations in the swimsuit segment. In fact, she moves perfectly and she reminded me of Shamcey Supsup, Ara Arida, Pia Wurtzbach and Maxine Medina.
On the other hand, I am a bit off with her evening gown. Her chest looks flat, the style is very ten years ago. This year, Indonesian queens like Kevin (Miss International 2017) and Achintya Nilsen (Miss World Indonesia) all wore exquisite gowns during their stints. I hope, Bunga will change her gown. I do not want her to be just like Keke who was sporting beautiful wardrobes and gowns during the activities, yet ended up wearing a mediocre gown in the finals. This time, I want Indonesia to go further. Indonesian women are now equipped and are capable of winning Big 5 crowns.
Well, Indonesia is indeed another market for the MUO. Next year, for the second time, Indonesia is expected to host Miss World 2018. While Miss Universe is milking the Philippines as of the present time, Indonesia is likely the next target for Miss Universe. Iris was even given the opportunity to do an advertisement in Indonesia. And believe me, there is this very strong chance for their country to win the Miss Universe crown anytime. It could even be this edition though.
With proper styling, Bunga is likely to be successful in her quest for their first Miss Universe crown. Truthfully, I am happy to see Asian countries to be excelling in this field. I hope, Asian fans will start supporting each other, and ignore the nasty fans causing rift with each other. Indonesians are like the Filipinos. They are also dreamers and achievers. They were deprived for so many years because of their form of government. Now, Indonesia is doing well, I hope we can be happy for their achievements. Let’s not be greedy. Let’s not be selfish. Let’s give other Asian countries to shine.
Truthfully, Alicia is more stunning in person that in her photos. Representing a place in South America to Miss France was a challenge. But, no one can dim her light as her beauty truly transcends.
Last year, when Alicia was crowned Miss France, Iris hasn’t won yet. So that time, there wasn’t really a big pressure. But this time, a back to back win is Alicia’s goal. She was even in the Philippines last January and has witnessed Iris’ victory. Since then, many Miss Universe fans and National Directors saw her and considered her as an early favorite.
During the prelims, Alicia delivered two solid performances. Thus, in my book, she is in a good spot. France is currently having its honeymoon stage with the Miss Universe Organization. Alicia is definitely in their radar. Who knows, to compensate Iris’ short reign, Alicia can very well continue and take charge.
But, do I personally see a back to back win? I know everything is possible and come finals night, we do not know who will surprise us or not. Remember Iris? She wasn’t part of the many pre-selected activities in the Philippines. The likes of Venezuela, Colombia, USA, Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia were always included, while Iris was just always not chosen. But come prelims, Iris wowed everybody. Non-believers suddenly became a believer. National Directors suddenly made her their topic. Iris doesn’t even have a sad story to share. She never intended to pull the heart strings of the judges through sad experiences. But Iris managed to end 63 years drought of France. She peaked the time time she needed to peak. So yes, I am still not losing hope for Alicia. France now know how to seal the deal, and I believe, France will still place this edition.
Talking about wow moments, just when I thought I am losing hope for Brazil, Monalysa indeed proved me wrong. Damn, she walked as if she is ready to be the next Miss Universe.
Brazil’s closest bid for the Miss Universe crown was a decade ago as first runner up to Japan (Riyo Mori) via Natalia Guimaraes. This year, Brazil has sent a better version of their last year’s representative. Monalysa is younger, fresher, and damn hotter. And if it’s the right time to crown another Brazilian, she is very much deserving to be their third Miss Universe.
Mind you, in the 60’s, Brazil has already produced two Miss Universe winners (1963,1968). Venezuela only had their first in 1979. So it seems, Brazil has been a sleeping giant.
During the prelims, while I’m starting to feel bored, Monalysa came walking like a Victoria Secret Angel. Superb performance indeed. Then, she came out with this ethereal white number, and boy oh boy, she nailed it perfectly. That sleeves, those hands on her hips, and that commanding walk— gosh, DIVINE. She’s my pick for Best in Evening Gown.
Monalysa indeed has a big potential in bringing home the Miss Universe crown. Watch out. She is slaying the competition.
Demi Leigh Peters has been considered as The One to Beat. Her face alone screams Miss Universe. To date, South Africa’s one and only Miss Universe crown was in 1978 via Margaret Gardiner. In 2014, pageant enthusiasts like me were excited to see a face to face from Paulina Vega and Rolene Strauss. But Rolene became Miss World, giving Paulina less competition on that said edition. Last decade, Cindy Nell became my favorite Miss South African queen, but unfortunately she only ended up as a runner up.
This year, South Africa has a big chance. Demi is indeed considered as one of the front runners. Again, let me repeat, her face can indeed launch a thousand ships. Yes, people would say that she is not tall especially if she’s next to Miss Spain. But who cares, Olivia Culpo proved us that in this day and age, you do not need to be a glamazon. David can actually still kill Goliath.
I’ve been closely monitoring Demi since her arrival in Vegas. Well, she was my Pre-arrival pick. I am happy to see her having photoshoots and interviews left and right. That itself is a proof that she is a heavy favorite.
But, her evening gown was a let down during the prelims. That was the time to shine. Remember Iris in her prelims last January, that’s the time when she started to peak and slowly shining her brightest. When I saw her, it made me sad. What happened? Is that a strategy? All I know, after the prelims, all National Directors will have a gathering. That’s the time they will talk about who impressed them the most. Melinda Bam should know better as she’s the current National Director for South Africa. Her gold leather gown caused her exclusion in the top 5 back in 2012. Are we going to see a repeat of that year? Please, Melinda you have to do something to make up from your misfortune five years ago.
Plus, Demi’s styling reminded me of Urvashi. This “pin up girl” vibe can very much look tacky and trashy, instead of conveying a more glamourous look.
Hence, I can still see Demi pulling a win if she will be styled properly, and if she’ll wear a fabulous gown and be mindful about her lipstick. You might not be the tallest, but just like Lara Quigaman in 2005 (5’5” height), all you need is to find the right packaging and a look that suits you perfectly. Refrain from experimenting. This is already the finals, it’s high time to pull off your big guns. And yes, I am mad and disappointed.
Maria is also one of the most sought after candidates this year. With her exquisite stylings, impressive National Costume, and millions of supporters, I can truly sense Thailand’s hunger for their third crown.
Maria has been playing her cards well. Since her arrival in Las Vegas, just like Miss South Africa, she has been very in demand. She reminded me of the attention given to Venus Raj in 2010.
About her preliminary performances, she has that wow moment during the evening gown segment. The pepplum around her waist seems to be very strategic as it made her look curvy. The only thing I do not like was the expressions on her face. The way she smiles and those dead eyes were bothering me. She should learn from Pia on that department. Her swimsuit presentation was a bit off and was too much. I didn’t see her shining nor she failed to own the stage just like what Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines did.
Do I see Maria winning? Yes of course. She can truly bring back honor to Thailand. My only problem is that I wish her face is more Thai than Eurasian. I feel she’s too white and her beauty if more of a European and not a Thai. I wish to see a Miss Universe from Thailand with the same beauty just like Aniporn, Chalita or Fahsai. But, it’s just me though. Pia looks Eurasian too and she managed to bring pride and honor back to the Philippines, so I shouldn’t have qualms right?
Seeing Maria’s interviews made me feel confident. She is eloquent and can really speak her mind. I guess, she is what Thailand is waiting for. She is equipped physically and mentally and I can sense she will be Porntip’s successor as Thai Miss Universe. All Maria has to do is to nail that Top 6 question and answer, then continue knocking us down at the Final 3. Miss Universe crown is brewing for Thailand, indeed. Well done.
As Asia’s powerhouse of beauty, all eyes are with Rachel Peters. Truthfully, I am blown away by her preliminary performances. Well, it’s given that she will excel in the swimsuit round. Those legs, her body, her shoulders and her walk were on point. She was also mesmerizing with her gold number during the evening gown parade. She gave us just the right amount of sassiness and flair. It was like as she was conveying a message that she is just giving us a sample of what she will deliver come finals night.
Since her big win as Miss Universe Philippines, Rachel has lost a lot of weight. I’ve always seen her as someone who is giving me that Gabriela Isler vibe. She exudes such sex appeal that is both exotic and delightful. Yes, Rachel also has these Paulina Vega and Solenn Heusaf vibes.
The Philippines is indeed in it’s golden years. The year 2010 marks the dawn of a new beginning. Since then, they’ve proven the Universe that they really mean business. After being in the top 5 for four straight years and one top ten finish, Pia Wurtzbach ended the four decade drought. This year, Rachel is equally hungry. What I like about Rachel is that she is playing it as if she is a swan - serene from the outside, but working really hard in the inside.
Do I truly believe that Rachel can win? Absolutely! Putting her in the first runner up is a tough call. If I will follow my heart, Rachel is my Miss Universe. But, I have to set aside my feelings. I have to be objective and weigh a lot of things and options. Politics may play a vital role on why Philippines may not win. She might be the most seductive, sexiest, poised, and beautiful woman come finals night, but her biggest competition is the delegate hosting the pageant. USA is notorious in patrionizing their own. I truly believe that if Miss USA will not be axed from the top 10, then Kara is likely to win it all. But if Kara will be excluded in the top 6, Rachel can very well pull off a sandwich victory. Angelia and Karren pulled it off at Miss Earth, why not a repeat this time around at Miss Universe.
I truly hope that 2017 is a repeat of 2015 wherein Angelia won Miss Earth, while Pia won Miss Universe.
Rachel is a deserving winner, and can best represent the brand of Miss Universe. I believe she is ready, driven, and passionate about the cause of Miss Universe. In addition, her advocacy of celebrating one’s identity will inspire a lot of women worldwide. Mabuhay ka Rachel, Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.
And Miss Universe 2017 is...
I’ve been very vocal that if there’s someone I’m scared about, it’s gonna be Kara being crowned as the new Miss Universe. Damn, she is very intelligent, and I know since she is living with Iris, Kara has done her own research on how to attack the competition.
In one of my conversations with my fellow pageant experts, I told them what if USA will win again just like in 2012?
Will it be history repeats itself?
Here are the possible scenarios:
Top 2 will be USA and Philippines
Philippines wearing powder blue and will be first runner while USA will win. Deja vu of Janine and Olivia right?
#VegasStrong is almost like the same in 2012 wherein after a horrible gun incident, an American won. Prior to the finals of Miss Universe 2012, The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting occurred on December 14, 2012, in Newtown, Connecticut, when 20-year-old Adam Lanza fatally shot 20 children between six and seven years old, as well as six adult staff members. Prior to driving to the school, he shotand killed his mother at their Newtown home. Americans were about to celebrate Christmas not in a festive way. But then, their spirits were held up high after Olivia Culpos win.
Fast forward, on the night of October 1, 2017, a gunman opened fire on a crowd of 22,000 concertgoers at the Route 91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada, leaving 58 people dead and 546 injured. Miss Universe 2017 is being held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Is Miss Universe ready to crown another American in tuned with #VegasStrong and Making America Great Again? Well, it’s even Thanksgiving in US. Is Kara about to make their Thanksgiving memorable with her win?
Regardless, if Kara will be able to surpass the evening gown segment, I am definitely sure that she will “eat the microphone” come Top 6 question and answer portion. Thus, she can smoothly move her way to the Final 3, and is likely to win the crown with an impressive final Q and A response. Can you also picture in mind what I have in mind?
From her preliminary performances, Kara did very well in both segments. I am particularly amazed during the Swimsuit competition. I may not be a big fan of her yellow evening gown as I felt it’s a bit dated, but she carried with confidence and that matters the most. In 2014, USA almost made it, but Nia ended up first runner up. In 2015, Olivia Jordan was in the top 3. Is Kara about to bounce back after last year’s Top 10 placement?
Another great way to express women empowerment is indeed crowing a woman with a very impressive resume. Miss Earth has just crowned a Scientist recently. Is the Earth and the Universe truly connected and will crown a fellow Scientist too? Well, Kara will surely embody the brand of Miss Universe perfectly. With her charm and wit, I am definitely sure she will be able to execute her own advocacy. As a woman of color, she is an epitome that all dreams are valid. That a woman like her can be both successful in beauty pageants and in their chosen fields.
Well, pageant queens are no longer tagged as shallow. Pageant Queens like Miss Universe can truly have an impact and a say in the society we live in today. I can’t wait to see Kara inspiring the rest of the universe. I know she can, and she will.
*** Thanks to my friends Qarlo, Marck Prince, Kirina Urduja, Nhoie Gee and Tala
Also to Shawie, Maki, Mark Glen, GM, Arvin, Clark Quasar, Miguel West, and Gio Flores.