The last time that a reigning Miss Universe was in the Philippines was when Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres of Puerto Rico attended the Miss Universe 1994 here in Manila. Filipinos are known to be the best pageant fans and we sure know how to love our queens. Dayanara appeared in movies and television shows in the country. Just imagine the news, when it was announced that the reigning Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler of Venezuela will be attending the coronation night of Binibining Pilipinas 2014. Fans got crazy and speculations floated around on the real reason behind the visit. BPCI prepared one of the biggest production ever. And fans who are based in other cities (like me) flocked to Manila to see The Queen LIVE 🙂
Gabriela’s schedule during her 5-day visit to the country was a bit hectic as she had to attend to several interviews, functions with BPCI and Binibini candidates, a visit to Yolanda-affected island in Palawan (which I will cover separately) and of course, attending the coronation night. Here are some beautiful photos for us to enjoy chronicling Gabriela’s stay in the country!
Photo Credits: Miss Universe
Gabriela is seen here with Paula Shugart (Miss Universe Organization President) and Mdm. Stella Araneta (Chairperson, BPCI). The photo was taken during the arrival press conference. By the way, I saw Paula Shugart in person and she was just radiant!
Gabriela posing for photographers in between interviews with members of the press. Ms. Joyce Burton of Adventures of a Beauty Queen shared the same sentiment – Gabriela looked way more beautiful in person than in photos!
Gabriela with the candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2014. This was taken on her first night in the country when 18 candidates presented their national costume through a mini-fashion show. I can’t help but notice Yvethe Marie Santiago here!
Gabriela poses with the Chairman of ABS-CBN Corporation, the media giant partner of BPCI, Gabby Lopez
Such a rare moment… Three of the reigning queens in the world in one photo op! Gabriela is seen her with Bea Santiago (Miss International 2013) and Mutya Datul (Miss Supranational 2013). Joining in are Ara Arida & Venus Raj!
Gabriela is enjoying the infamous sunset of Manila
Gabriela is all smiles in this photo with 4 of the most beautiful Filipinas who made history by consecutively placing in the Top 5 of their respective Miss Universe pageants – Venus Raj, Ara Arida, Shamcey Supsup & Janine Tugonon. I must admit that Janine was my favorite on that night.
Judging duties… Gabriela poses with her boss – MUO President – Paula Shugart! Even Paula looked exquisite that evening. That neck piece was a true statement.
Latina represent… Mdm. Stella who hails from Colombia and Gabriela – a proud citizen of Venezuela – surely had a lot to talk to 🙂
I fell in love more with Gabriela when I saw her in person.
I hope that she enjoyed her stay in the Philippines!
–Kattera–
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