Miss Universe Philippines queens turn into Disney Princesses

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

From left: Rabiya Mateo as Ariel, Celeste Cortesi as Cinderella and Bea Gomez as Belle

BJ Pacual, BYS / Released

MANILA, Philippines — Ace lensman BJ Pacual, in collaboration with BYS cosmetics and Disney Princess, photographed reigning Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Silvia Celeste Cortesi, together with Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo and Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Beatrice Luigi Gomez, as three Disney princesses.

"A modern-day princess is, first of all, someone that is brave; someone who is not afraid to take risks and to always chase after her own dreams. Somebody who is courageous and brave enough to accept her weaknesses, her flaws, and always go after whatever she wants to pursue in her life," shared Cortesi, who was photographed as Cinderella.

BJ's photographic work, as well as the montage captured during the photo shoot, were presented to members of the media during a sit-down dinner at the Siren Studios in Makati City recently. Simply dubbed "BYS x Disney Princess Collection Launch," the formal affair brought together beauty queens and creatives in a spirit of fun and fellowship.

"Thank you for giving us this collaborative project. We don't usually get freedom in our line of work. Me and my team are so grateful that we were able to bring BYS and Disney Princess' vision to life," confessed Pascual.

The elegant banquet, prepared by multi-awarded Chef Margarita Fores, was an eight-course affair with wine pairing.

"Our first Disney makeup collection is at Watsons stores. It will empower young ladies who are not afraid to face the world and the challenges it brings, as well as limitless opportunities. And this is a testament to how far women go and succeed. Courage and kindness embody the true character of every Disney princess. There's more to just endorsing brands and labels; they can be causes and initiatives too," said BYS Philippines executive Angie Goyena.

"A Disney princess is someone who is kind and  compassionate, just like each one of us MUPH queens who are the princesses of BYS Cosmetics that represent one trait of each. For me as Belle, I represent beauty and intelligence. Modern-day princesses are more than just beautiful 'coz they have innate beauty which is more than physical. They have kind hearts, beautiful minds that exudes more than just their physical attributes," enthused Bea, who was photographed as the heroine from "Beauty and the Beast."

The collection offers variants with color palettes that fit different types of princess characters.

"A modern-day princess needs to be courageous. She needs to be a risk-taker because there are lots of stereotypes in this world that will put you in a box. You need to have the heart, and the freedom to be who you really are - to break expectations, to spread your wings and have the  courage to conquer the universe. Once you have courage, a lot of great and beautiful things will come to you and you will make it happen," intoned Rabiya, who was photographed as Ariel from "The Little Mermaid."

BYS, as a makeup label, espouses their campaign tagline "Be yourself."

‘Everyone is represented’ — Miss Universe Philippines official delegates

by Jane Kingsu-Cheng, Manila Bulletin

Despite the ongoing pandemic, Miss Universe Philippines organization has proven themselves to be very dedicated and passionate in search of the best delegates to represent our country. This year is not different with the announcement of 100 participants this year.

In their Facebook post, the organization highlighted that there is beauty in diversity. “The Miss Universe Philippines Official Delegates inspire representation in various forms. They are tourism ambassadors who promote their regions. They are the faces of the rich cultural heritage of our nation. Filipinas from the indigenous peoples like the Manobo and Bagobo tribes, mixed races and various ethnicties, everyone is represented. The beauty of the Filipina is as diverse as the natural beauty of the country. We take great pride in that Filipinos all over can look at the phenomenal delegates and be inspired by every single one.”

Rabiya Mateo is back after three months in the US

by Jane Kingsu-Cheng, Manila Bulletin

Our very own Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo is home, and the intimate homecoming was held today, July 14, at Hilton Manila.

“Finally, after three months of being in the US, I can finally say that I am home,” she starts off her speech. “To everybody who gave their time just to see me and welcome me home, maraming salamat po (thank you very much).”

“Being a representative during this time in the pandemic, it’s never easy. But I realized iba talaga pag ang Pilipino ang nagsuporta, kaya nagpapasalamat ako (It’s really different if Filipinos support you, that’s why I am grateful).” She also gave special thanks to former Miss Universe Philippines Shamcey Supsup, “Mama J” or Jonas Gaffud of Miss Philippines Inc., and to everyone who is part of the organization. “Maraming salamat sa suporta at sa paniniawala nyo sa amin (Thank you very much for the support and for believing in me). It wouldn’t be possible if not for the love and support that you have given me.”

Shamcey Supsup also went on stage to talk about the upcoming Miss Universe Philippines competition, but she thanked all their supporters first, “This homecoming press conference is a small gathering of those who have been supportive of the Miss Philippines organization from the very start. We certainly couldn’t have done this without your support. Your dedication to pageantry has uplifted the lives of many young women all over the country.”

She then moves on to talk about the upcoming Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) competiton, “I am very happy to announce that this year’s theme for the MUPH 2021 pageant would be ‘Inspire you.’ A Miss Universe Philippines is a phenomenal woman because she has the ability to inspire others.” And this year’s three pillars are roots, transformation, and charity.

“Inspired by your roots, the MUPh’s associated partners’ program ensures that as many cities and provinces throughout the country are well represented. Join us as we take a deep dive into the interesting and moving parts of our cultures revealed to the eyes of our contestants. Inspiring transformations with the world renowned experience of the key members of the Miss Universe organizations in bringing out the best in a Filipina. The goal is to find their unique best self that should also move other people to seek their best selves. And lastly, inspiring charity. It doesn’t matter whether its big or small. Doing something good that can be sustainable should also inspire others to do the same.”

Good luck to this year’s contestants!