Samantha Bernardo. Image: Josh Tolentino via Instagram/@samanthabernardo__
Miss Grand International 2020 first runner-up Samantha Bernardo said that she is not closing her door to pageantry, especially after the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) made a “game-changing” move by removing the age limit for candidates.
Bernardo told reporters on the sidelines of Park Chanyeol’s media conference that the MUO’s recent move is an opportunity for aspiring candidates to “showcase another Filipina beauty,” however, she has yet to decide if she will try her luck in the pageant.
“It’s gonna be a game-changer for everyone,” she said. “I feel like I’ve done my best in representing the Philippines in pageantry. This is the time for other girls to showcase another Filipina beauty. However, I’m not closing my doors towards it.”
The TV personality then thanked her fans for supporting her pageant career, although she noted that she “turned the next chapter of [her] life” already.”
“A lot of people are encouraging me to join. I feel the love and support of the whole Philippines but let’s see how I feel because I’ve turned the next chapter of my life. I got engaged. Who knows, diba (right),” she said, while referring to her partner Scott Moore.
Bernardo then urged pageant fans to support Michelle Dee who will represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador this coming November.
“I know she will do her best. I know she’s gonna kill it. Siguro, ang message ko lang (I guess my only message) is that the whole Philippines is with you (Dee). Go, go, go. Get that crown,” she added.
The MUO announced last September that it’s scrapping the age limit for candidates which will take effect in 2024. Prior to the change, women between the ages of 18 and 28 were only allowed to join the global tilt.
Bernardo joined the Miss World Philippines pageant in 2013 where she placed in the Top 13. She then competed at the Binibining Pilipinas tilt for three times, before being chosen to represent the country in Miss Grand International 2020. EDV