New beauty queens’ message to the next administration

BINIBINING Pilipinas winners (from left): 1st runnerup Angelica Alita, Globe Nichole Manalo, Supranational Joana Eden, Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina, International Kylie Verzosa, Intercontinental Jennifer Hammond, Grand International Nicole Cordoves, and 2nd runnerup Jehza Mae Huelar

This year’s Binibining Pilipinas queens hope to be inspired by the next administration in their quest to give honor to the country by sustaining its impressive performance in the international pageant scene.

At a private gathering at the Novotel Manila in Quezon City after their coronation last month, the ladies shared with Inquirer their messages to the next administration.

Maxine Medina, the country’s Miss Universe bet, said: “Name-calling and mudslinging are prevalent nowadays. I want you (presidential candidates) to tackle issues and not personalities [because] as the next president, you will rule and inspire the people.”

Binibining Pilipinas-International Kylie Verzosa, who will compete for the country’s sixth Miss International title, said:  “I know that the Philippines has a lot of outstanding problems and six years may not be enough [to solve them]. I hope that you try your best. This time, what we need is a listening president.”

For her part, Nichole Marie Manalo, who bagged the new title Binibining Pilipinas-Globe, gave this advice: “Just be selfless and inspiring. Embody the best of the Filipinos. We’re intelligent, genuine, and we love peace—showcase those qualities. Inspire more countries and people.”

Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational Joanna Eden meanwhile listed a stringent set of qualifications for her next leader.

“I hope the future president is well-educated and is aware of good moral values. I don’t want him or her to be afraid of making unpopular decisions,” she declared.

Jennifer Hammond, Binibining Pilipinas-Intercontinental, appealed: “Please fight corruption and promote a participatory government. Promote accountability, transparency and the rule of law.”

MAXINE Medina, the country’s Miss Universe bet (left) and Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach

“Please walk the talk,” Binibining Pilipinas-Grand International Nicole Cordoves appealed:  “Every Filipino wants to be inspired by the good example of the president. You don’t do this just by going against the decisions of the previous administration. Please be inspiring and relevant, just like Justin Trudeau. I hope we have more innovative solutions [to our problems].”

Empowering citizens appeared to be on top of first runnerup Angelica Alita’s mind. “Expand our vocational studies. Provide better equipment and facilities and [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority] centers,” she said.

For second runnerup Jehza Mae Huelar, the president’s health is of utmost importance.

“In general, a good decision comes from a sound body,” she explained.