As expected, many of the pre-pageant favorites in this year’s Binibining Pilipinas pageant did well on the much-anticipated national costume competition.
Of the 10 finalists that emerged, eight have appeared on fearless forecasts of pageant pundits, with at least four (Catriona Gray, Michelle Gumabao, Aya Abesamis and Sandra Lemonon) considered as top contenders for the six crowns up for grabs.
Once considered a lopsided affair in favor of former Miss World Philippines winner Catriona Gray, the coveted Miss Universe Philippines competition in particular has now become a three-cornered fight, with volleyball superstar Michelle Gumabao and Aya Abesamis, the daughter of former Miss Universe Philippines Desiree Verdadero, emerging as strong challengers.
With less than two weeks to go before the pageant’s grand coronation night on March 16 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the girls are stepping up their game and pageant fans might be treated to some surprises along the way.
(With report by Yummie Dingding/InterAksyon)