What makes a Binibini?

Binibining Pilipinas celebrates its 60th year of empowering and celebrating all kinds of Filipina beauty.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

  

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It is an understatement that Filipinos are big pageant fans, so much so that beauty contests have been a staple in many community celebrations. But when it comes to a grand display of Filipino beauty, it is hard not to think of Binibining Pilipinas.

Since 1964, Binibining Pilipinas has been one of the most anticipated beauty contests in the country. Every year, Filipinas from different parts of the archipelago brave the pageant's stage for a chance to win their dream crowns and compete abroad.

Style Weekend's July 5, 2024 digital cover celebrates the 60th anniversary of Binibining Pilipinas

Through the years, its platform has changed into something beyond just physical beauty. As a project under Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Incorporated (BPCI), the pageant also gives its contestants a platform to tell their stories, give light to their initiatives, and be part of various humanitarian missions. 

As it commemorates its 60th anniversary this year, Binibining Pilipinas is committed to continuing its mission of empowering and celebrating all kinds of Filipino beauty. To celebrate its legacy, Style Weekend sits down with some of the ladies from its latest roster of beauty contestants—Bb. 11 Kim de Luna (Caloocan), Bb, 29 Roselyn Evardo (Manila), Bb. 30 Trisha Martinez (Pila, Laguna), and Bb. 32 Carmella Cuaresma (Aurora Province)—as they talk about how pageantry continues to empower women, their lives before joining the beauty contest, and what makes a Binibini today.

 Kim de Luna, Roselyn Evardo, Trisha Martinez, and Carmella Cuaresma

What are the lessons you learned in the past that you are applying in your Binibini journey?

Roselyn: I started working when I was 16 years old. I was a working student. Eventually, I landed a job in a corporate setting. Now, as a flight attendant. It molded me to be more mature and responsible in my decision-making. I applied it here in the pageant.

Trisha: One core value that I practice every day as a licensed dentist is empathy. I always have to put myself in the position of my patients so that I can give the best care that they deserve. To me, that’s one of the qualities a Binibini should have, being empathetic toward others, because we work with a lot of people.

Kim: Discipline and time management. When you join Binibini, you’ll learn that time is very valuable to the organization, so you need to be present and professional. Those are some of the things I learned from my time at the Philippine Air Force.

Carmella: To be strong, that’s what I learned from studying criminology.

Binibining Pilipinas 2024 candidates at the Manila Bulletin office

What makes a Binibini?

Roselyn: A Binibini is someone who knows herself—her true self. Being a Binibini is not just about the glitz and glamor. We carry the responsibility of ensuring that we are updated about current events, that our advocacy is shared with other people, and that we stand and believe in what is better for the community.

Trisha: Having a mission to serve other people, to extend yourself to the community. Being a Binibini is not just about winning the crown. It is also about serving your purpose.

Kim: Someone who is empowered, who has a lot of experiences to share with others, and who is willing to be of service to the community.

Carmella: Hard work and dedication. Coming from the province, I put a lot of effort into pursuing this dream. Transitioning from province life to city life is hard but you need to believe in yourself, be brave, and persevere.

For many candidates, the highlight of their Binibining Pilipinas experience lies in the sisterhood they made throughout their journey

Do you think pageants continue to empower women?

Roselyn: Yes, I think beauty pageants still empower women. It is very relevant. It is a platform for women, and we use this stage to amplify our advocacies and purpose here in the community. 

Trisha: I think there is a misconception about us beauty queens that we only just have a pretty face, but we are more than that. Through this pageant, we are given a platform to talk about our causes. It uplifts women and I think all women should take up the spaces that allow us to be heard.

Kim: Pageantry has been transforming in a very positive way. I’m sure a lot of people are asking if pageants are still relevant. But for me, pageantry allows us to share our advocacies and do charity work.

Carmella: I do believe pageant helps empower women. Before I entered pageantry, I found myself feeling doubtful and worried. Now that I’m here, it helped boost my confidence. After being in a male-dominated field, it is nice to embrace my femininity.

The much-awaited grand coronation night of the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant will be held on July 7, 2024, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The new Bb. Pilipinas International and Bb. Pilipinas Globe titleholders will get P1 million each.

Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? You can reach us via styleweekendph@gmail.com or on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

Zoomers' Season 2 brings more drama from Zoomkada

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

  

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AT A GLANCE

• “Zoomers” Season2is directed by Kevin Alambra, with creative producer Theodore Boborol, and written by head writer Carmela Abaygar and episode writers Carol Navarro, and Airic Diestro.

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The cast of 'Zoomers' Season 2

A new season means a new story begins, as trending loveteam Harvey Bautista, Criza Taa, and their Gen Z barkada encounter more drama for "Zoomers" Season 2.

During their media conference held at 9501 Restaurant in ABS-CBN on July 1, Harvey mentioned his excitement to explore the upcoming season's new challenges.

"Very thankful kaming lahat na nandito na kami sa media conference ng season 2. It is very exciting that we can continue the stories of the Zoomers. I'm happy that I'm with Direk Kevin and the rest of the cast," Harvey said.

(We are all very thankful that we are here at the media conference of season 2. It is very exciting that we can continue the stories of the Zoomers. I'm happy that I'm with Director Kevin and the rest of the cast)

Harvey also added that the response from the audience online has helped improve more on playing the role of Jigs.

"Reading yung tweets nung audience from season 1 may mga insights sila na hindi ko naisip, bilang artista ni Jigs. So seeing the response online did impact my performance on being more careful sa approach ko kay Jigs," he shared.

(Reading the audience's tweets from season 1, they had insights that I didn't think of as an actor of Jigs. So, seeing the response online did impact my performance on being more careful in my approach to Jigs) 

The cast and directors of 'Zoomers' Season 2

As per Criza, she expressed her gratitude for the people who supported their first season.

"Sobrang nagulat din kami since first time namin ni Harvey bumida sa series. As much as nag-eexpect kami nandoon pa rin yung gulat na mamahalin pala ng tao yung ginawa namin together," she said

(We were also very surprised since Harvey and I starred in the series for the first time. As much as we expected, there was still the shock that people would love what we did together)

In the newest season, the Gen Z barkada spend their last summer together before they head to college. Jiggs joins his first directing competition in hopes of winning the cash prize for Hope, who continues to find ways for her to pursue college.

Meanwhile, both Tanya and Kokoy will encounter problems with love. Tanya must decide between entertaining her old fling, Faye (Kei), or her new best friend, Juniper (Hadiyah Santos).

Kokoy will also have to level up his moves to make Mika fall in love with him as her childhood friend, played by Argel Saycon, returns. Atom will also face a ghost from his past as he meets Dino (Luis) in the resort. At the same time, he also gets an opportunity to be closer to Beth (Zabel Lamberth).  

“Zoomers” Season 2 is directed by Kevin Alambra, with creative producer Theodore Boborol, and written by head writer Carmela Abaygar and episode writers Carol Navarro, and Airic Diestro. The series’ first season was directed by Chad Vidanes, who now serves as a line producer in the upcoming season.

AUDIOJUNKIE: The ladies bring it

BY PUNCH LIWANAG

Jul 8, 2024 07:49 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• A solo music act that we really want to hear more about is Shanne Dandan.

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FROM LEFT: mrld, Shane Dandan, Dyessa Garcia and Yennybooo (Facebook)

This week’s listing features some very talented ladies whose music style runs the gamut: from art-y alt-pop to glitzy R&B, vibing hiphop to power ballads.

A solo music act that we really want to hear more about is Shanne Dandan. A solid songwriter as she is a powerhouse vocalist, her music stands out for its artistic leanings. Her recently released tune, the ethereal sounding “Iyakin,” sees Shane Dandan dabbling in alt-pop-tinged drama with traces of prog fusion thrown in the mix. Ditto, Shane likes her song, which is heavy on imagery. 

I wouldn’t even attempt to interpret exactly what the song is about except that it's about the passage of the day measured by the light that escapes and eventually turns to dusk, which all seems like a dream. Talk about mood and vibe. This is Shane Dandan’s default and should be required listening for alt-rock aficionados and listeners of pop to get a measure of depth in their listening diet. 

In case you missed it, “An Art Gallery Could Never Be As Unique As You” & “Ligaya” singer mrld returned with the new single “Sandali.” Whereas her previous singles were modern-sounding soft ballads that resounded with Gen Z’ers, her latest makes a 180-degree turn to Hip-hop and R&B-inflected sounds. The singer shares that her new song is inspired by the BTS song “Lowkey,” sure enough, this mid-tempo bop feels like mold is going to bust a dance move anytime within its pop-and-lockin’ 3-minute plus runtime. I guess this is mrld (real name Meriel de Jesus) showing there is more to her than just her ode ballads.  

Newly-minted R&B and Hip-hop solo act Yennyboo, a.k.a. Yen Durano, drops a tuneful R&B-inflected ditty in “Sayo.” Chilling is the order of the day for Yennybooo, who finds time to drop some cool tunes in-between roles in her Vivamax movies. Listen to Yennyboo’s previous tracks, such as the moody and vibing “Sativa” and the sexy R&B grind of “On the Low,” to know that she’s not just playing music on the side when she’s not acting. If anything, it’s the other way around.  

Speaking of Vivamax actresses, Dyessa Garcia also makes a decent try for pop music on her Vicor debut titled “Tanggap Ko Na.” Dyessa goes for a piano-decked ballad that rises and climaxes in all the right places. And wouldn’t you know, Dyessa Garcia can render this power ballad with all the apropos heart-rending emotion that make “Tanggap Ko Na” the hugot song we didn’t think we needed.

And on the side of Pinoy rap, Juan Caoile and Kyleswish are at it again, keeping the momentum going with their new single, "SA’YO LANG.” The ‘Marikit Sa Dilim’ architects have a new sonic vehicle to cruise on in this bouncy banger about a beautiful distraction they can’t get their minds out of. Featured here is rapper Jawz, who provides the motor mouth rap break that runs counter to Kyleswish's own breaks and Juan Caoile’s melodies. 

ALLMO$T members are all in for brand-new track titled “boyfriend.” This is the latest upbeat banger from hook singers Clien and Jom and main rappers Crakky and Russell, a fast-paced affair that just screams for its own dance challenge on TikTok.

Catchy melodies are Ace Cirera’s main weapon of choice in his song titled “Takip Silim.” Ace has always distinguished himself as a rap artist who goes for catchy tunes with throwback themes to easier days and is so good at crafting little bubblegum pop with a hint of rap flair like this one.

Why there’s a sudden interest in Henry Mancini ?

 

Italian/American composer Henry Mancini would have been a hundred years old last April 16. He was born in Ohio to a family of Italian immigrants on April 16, 1924. He died on June 14, 1994 from pancreatic cancer. Mancini grew up to become a conductor, arranger, flutist, pianist, concert performer and one of the greatest composers in the history of film music. Moon River, Days of Wine and Roses, Music from Peter Gunn, theme from ‘The Pink Panther,’ Once is Not Enough, Charade and so many others. No wonder a lot of people want to celebrate him. I do, too. STAR / File

SOUNDS FAMILIAR - Baby A. Gil - The Philippine Star 

July 6, 2024 | 12:00am

I initially found it strange that items about the Italian/American composer Henry Mancini were suddenly popping up online these past weeks when I thought there was no reason for them to do so. I love Mr. Mancini’s music very much but he had already passed away so what could be newsworthy about him?

It turned out that I was so wrong. The reason why media had developed a sudden interest in Mr. Mancini was because he would have been a hundred years old last April 16. He was born in Ohio to a family of Italian immigrants on April 16, 1924. He died on June 14, 1994 from pancreatic cancer. So that was why there was this concert at the Hollywood Bowl, a new tribute album and Michael Bublé is singing Moon River.

Mancini grew up to become a conductor, arranger, flutist, pianist, concert performer and one of the greatest composers in the history of film music. Moon River, Days of Wine and Roses, Music from Peter Gunn, theme from “The Pink Panther,” Once is Not Enough, Charade and so many others. No wonder a lot of people want to celebrate him. I do, too.

Mancini created pretty melodies. His works were nothing earthshaking but they were classy and made being lazy and listless, not only acceptable but utterly chic. What sort of image do you get when you hear Charade? Dinner on a boat sailing the River Seine. What about Speak Softly Love? I say fields and fields of sunflowers. What tune would you like playing in your head while walking the sidewalks of Manhattan? Once is Not Enough. And when you get to your destination at Tiffany’s? Of course, Moon River plays in your soundtrack.

There are more as I rediscovered while going over his bio for this piece. No wonder there was this pretty little tune The Sweetheart Tree at the end of “The Great Race.” It was by Mancini. Is there anything cuter than the Baby Elephant Walk from “Hatari.” He did the music for the most binged series of the ‘70s era “The Thornbirds.”  He worked on the music of “Me Natalie” with Rod McKuen, plus Moment to Moment, Dear Heart and who can dismiss one of my all-time favorites, the music of “Two for the Road” and its meaningful theme song.

Mancini also excelled as an arranger. His work on A Time for Us, the Nino Rota tune from “Romeo and Juliet” and Love Story by Francis Lai made the hit charts. He is credited with the clever use of Ravel’s Bolero in “10.” Remember Bo Derek and her corn rows rising out of the sea? And many more. Suffice to say, back in those days, the ‘70s and ‘80s eras, Mancini was the go-to guy if you wanted a movie score that was sentimental, sexy, trendy and which would become a hit.

Mancini recorded 90 albums during his lifetime. He was nominated 72 times at the Grammy Awards. He won 20 of them including Album of the Year for “The Music from Peter Gunn” in 1958, Best Instrumental Arrangement for A Time for Us, the love theme from “Romeo and Juliet” in 1969, then Record of the Year and Song of the Year for Moon River from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” in 1961. He was nominated 18 times at the Academy Awards and won four times including Best Original Song for Moon River in 1961 and another Best Original Song again a year later for “Days of Wine and Roses.”

An interesting tribute album titled Henry Mancini, the 100th Sessions is set to drop soon. It is made up of new recordings of Mancini’s songs including Peter Gunn by Quincy Jones, John Williams, Herbie Hancock and Arturo Sandoval, the Moon River by Bublé and the theme from “The Pink Panther” by Lizzo and flutist James Galway, plus others.

Preparedness and collective action are keys to disaster resilience

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Jul 7, 2024 00:03 AM

  

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The impact of climate change has become more evident. Heat waves a few months ago affected routine, canceling classes in school, prohibiting outdoor activities, and adjusting the way people went along with their daily schedules. When the rains came, the waters flooded streets and destroyed crops, causing billions of pesos in damage, threatening food security, and claiming many lives. 

We are familiar with the scenarios that climate change has brought on. After emerging from a long dry spell of El Niño, we are preparing for the La Nina weather phenomenon. The reality of climate change should by now create a deeper awareness on the importance of resilience, or our ability to recover quickly from disaster.

That is the focus of the Climate Change Commission’s (CCC) campaign on the role of climate resilience in safeguarding the Philippines from the escalating impacts of climate change. Its observance of National Disaster Resilience Month is focused on the theme “Bantayog ng Katatagan at ang Pagbubuklod sa Layuning Kahandaan” (Pillar of resilience and uniting for preparedness). Programs emphasize the necessity of proactive measures to enhance the country’s ability to withstand and recover from climate-related disasters.

Preparedness is the key to resilience and this requires that individuals stay informed of what’s happening around them, especially on community programs that have been designed for dealing with climate change. Being connected to one’s community can start with volunteer work. Use this day to find out where you fit in your barangay’s disaster preparedness programs.

“Solidarity and collective action are fundamental to climate resilience. Building strong connections with neighbors and community organizations, participating in local volunteer efforts focused on climate-related disaster response and recovery, and spreading awareness about climate resilience through schools, workplaces, and social networks are also important,” the CCC said. 

The agency’s programs also include calls to support climate-resilient infrastructure improvement and the adoption of sustainable practices, including recycling, energy conservation, and sustainable transportation. Any effort to lessen one’s footprint on this planet – such as reducing waste – can contribute to sustainable practices.  Start with avoiding the use of single-use plastic bags and containers, a situation which confront each of us daily.
The crucial role that local government units (LGUs) will play in the implementation of national climate change mitigation and adaptation plans has been highlighted by the CCC during the recent Eastern Visayas Summit on Climate-Resilient Development. Among the programs discussed were the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change, National Climate Change Action Plan, and the National Climate Risks Management Framework.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is preparing for a significant initiative next year with its new community-led climate adaptation project under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS).

Now on its initial planning stage, the program is designed to tackle the dual challenges of poverty and climate change in vulnerable areas, particularly those prone to severe climatic hazards and home to indigenous populations.

Already, the DSWD has reported that the KALAHI-CIDSS has achieved “significant milestones, enhancing community resilience by constructing 1,250 community centers, multi-purpose buildings, and evacuation centers, providing safe havens during disasters.” It has also provided 928 units of disaster and pandemic response equipment, and built 3,566 quarantine facilities, re-purposed to manage public health emergencies during disasters.

The government programs to build disaster resilient communities need the support of individuals and families who make up the barangays.  Start with a disaster preparedness plan in your household.

Mandy Moore pitches Sabrina Carpenter as Rapunzel in potential 'Tangled' live-action

 

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

July 6, 2024 | 10:06am

Moore has made her pick on who she wants to star in a live-action "Tangled" movie should Disney give it a go: singer-actress Sabrina Carpenter.

Mandy sat down with media outlet Elite Daily to discuss her partnership with a recent project of TJ Maxx's where she was asked about a potential "Tangled" live-action remake and said she'd cast Sabrina as Rapunzel. Mandy was the voice behind the character in the 2010 animated movie.

"I could see her with 50 feet of hair or something," Mandy said. "She looks like a Disney princess in real life."

As for what role she'd take in a potential live-action remake, the actress envisions her as Rapunzel's mother where she could have a duet with Sabrina.

"Let's have a real mother-daughter duet, and have someone write an original song so we can talk about our differences and how hard it is to be a young person in this world," Mandy explained.

Both Mandy and Sabrina started out as Disney child stars, with Sabrina gaining fame in "Girl Meets World" and "Sofia the First," while Mandy's film debut was "The Princess Diaries," opposite Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews.

After more Disney projects, Sabrina began releasing more music and became a global sensation with her back-to-back hits "Espresso" and "Please, Please, Please."

Mandy went on to star in "A Walk to Remember," "Chasing Liberty," "All I Want," and a critically-acclaimed role in the show "This Is Us."

There are reports of a third "Princess Diaries" film in development, and Mandy wants a redemption arc for her character Lana.

"I would show up in a cameo, and work at a pet rescue now — just something fun," Mandy said.

"You have all the time in the world to continue to redefine who you are, how you want to treat people, and what you want your legacy to be. "None of us should be pigeonholed by who we were in high school and what we did, and I hope the same would go for Lana," she ended.

Disney has yet to announce a live-action remake of "Tangled." When Sabrina dressed up as Rapunzel last Halloween, it fueled fans' calls to consider her for the role for its potential live-action remake. 

Style Weekend: To become successful, young designers must understand that fashion is both art and business

‘To continue living our dreams and achieving success, we must embrace the dual nature of our craft.’

BY MB LIFESTYLE

  

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By Chris Salido

Last week, iAcademy students invited their friends and families to gather for a graduation ceremony unlike any other. The school, in collaboration with Style Conquest, made a bold statement as they took their commencement moment to the runway.

But before the “grad” finale, Jean Dee, head of the Fashion Design Department of iAcademy, was there. She went back and forth, checked the schedules, and oversaw the production. Dee was committed to her role—being a “stage mom” to her beloved students.

Joanna Santos, Elene Mariano, Jannah Collado, Ellyn Denubo, Abby Fernandez, and Megan Davies.

Backstage, Dee continued to assist her students. She gave them the support they needed and ensured everything ran smoothly behind the curtains as the show went on. “The Fashion Design and Technology (FDT) Grad Show is a commemoration of their creative journey, a celebration of their creativity, and the launch of their fashion careers. It is an extremely special and emotional event,” she said.

“It is a tribute to fashion designers participating in Style Conquest Fashion Shows. Chardy Baldoza of R PR and Prod envisioned an event to launch the careers of emerging designers to the public. [This year’s collaboration and] magazine commemorate our students’ hard work and provide them with a platform to launch their professional careers,” Dee added.

Fashion, art, and business 

It was the moment they all had been waiting for—a debut of their students' creations. Every measurement, every draft design, and every stitch they made, piece by piece, made its way to the finale, ending their academic journey with a show that proves the dream can turned into reality, especially when you have the right resources and genuine support from the people who believe in you.  

“iAcademy helps aspiring designers find or forge their creative paths in fashion and the creative industries. We support our students in finding their unique voices and building confidence in their work by honing their fashion competencies through lessons and experiences,” Dee said. “The (FDT) course takes three years and seven months to complete. Students spend three years in general education and specialized courses, finishing their thesis and internship during the last seven months. Many students engage in professional practice as early as their second year, allowing them the option to work in fashion while they study.”

"Mabi’s Arcade" by Abby Fernandez

"Adoracion" by Joanna Santo

In the competitive world of fashion, only the bravest and the boldest make the cut. That’s why the school is helping its students every step of the way to be ready, equipping them with the right skills, hands-on experiences, and resources to pursue their dream of being a fashion designer. It wants its students to hold on to their dreams and capitalize on the business side of art and fashion.

“My hope for every aspiring designer is to learn how to enterprise their creativity—using their unique gifts to solve problems and offer value to the workplace and society,” Dee said. “Fashion is both art and business and to continue living our dreams and achieving success, we must embrace the dual nature of our craft.”

Down the runway

During the event, six FDT students debuted their collections. Jannah Collado's "Astor" collection is inspired by an extreme fear of thunderstorms and lightning. Meanwhile, Megan Davies' collection, "The Inner Child," explores the discomfort of childhood trauma and the nostalgia that it brings. Ellyn Denubo's “Perya-serye” collection, however, brought on the playful and lively side of perya (funfair) to the runway.  

 "Blissful Awakening" by Elena Mariano

"The Inner Child" by Megan Davies

Abby Fernandez looked at her passion for Japanese arcades in making her streetwear collection dubbed "Mabi's Arcade." Elene Mariano's “Blissful Awakening” collection is an ode to her intimacy, an empowering and liberating experience for female sexual expression. Joanna Santos' "Adoracion" collection is an ode to her late grandmother Adoracion and how grief influenced her creative process. 

"Perya-Serye" by Ellyn Denubo

 "Astor" by Jannah Collado

“This year, we expect 11 students to graduate [in the FDT course]. Last week, six [of our] students showcased their collections. Younger students help and witness the excitement, preparing them for their final year. [And] we offer all our love and creativity to the graduating batch, wishing them well as they embark on exciting professional careers in fashion,” Dee ended.

Filipino food, aspiring beauty queens, and celebrity she admires

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Jul 6, 2024 00:46 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Andrea is in town for the 60th Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant, which will be held at Smart Araneta City on Sunday, July 7.

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Miss International 2023 Andrea Rubio (Images courtesy of Russ Cuevas)

Miss International 2023 Andrea Rubio enjoys traveling alone to different places. She had no escort or assistant when she arrived in the Philippines on Wednesday night. Andrea is in town for the 60th Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant, which will be held at Smart Araneta City on Sunday, July 7.

It's her first time in the Philippines, and she loves it. She enjoys tropical places and wouldn't mind returning to the country for a vacation. She loves the weather, similar to her country in Venezuela, so she has never had difficulty adjusting to the hot weather here. "It's all work here, but I love it! Maybe I'll return soon."

Andrea's fun personality was inspiring during the interview. The 25-year-old beauty queen is fluent in English, which she learned while attending high school and college in Colombia. 

During the interview, Andrea shared about the Filipino food she loves, the celebrity she looks up, her advice to future beauty queens, and her plans after her reign as Miss International in November.

Manila Bulletin: Hello Andrea! Welcome to the Philippines. Is this your first time visiting the country?

Andrea: Amazing country. What we have in Venezuela because of the weather is similar to Caracas. The city I was born in. It was when I was on the plane, and I looked out the window. And it was such a beautiful place. And I was excited to come here. I'm staying at the Novotel in Araneta City. it's a beautiful place full of infrastructures. And there's a big mall beside us. There's traffic but it's been amazing. 

Manila Bulletin: What Filipino words have you learned so far?

Andrea: Give me a few seconds. Mabuhay and salamat po!

Manila Bulletin: Have you tried any Filipino food?

Andrea: My favorite is chicken adobo. I've been having that for dinner for two days. And today's lunch is my favorite, too. 

Manila Bulletin: You speak good English. 

Andrea: I've been studying English since I was a little kid.

Manila Bulletin: How has your reign as Miss International been?

Andrea: It has been such a blast working with the organization because they are flexible in so many things. It's not as straight as people think it is. I live in Venezuela and also in Colombia. I've been traveling a lot in these two places this year. But getting the opportunity to know so many cultures and countries is something only a few people have. So it's a blast to learn so much from your culture for other countries for other people. It's been massive for me.

Manila Bulletin: How has winning Miss International changed your life?

Andrea: It changed me in a lot of ways. It taught me so many things about being a good competitor. Because when you're in Miss International, you're in Tokyo, it's not a bad competition. It's a good competition when you're with other girls and you learn from them. When I got to Tokyo, I lost all my luggage. And the girls lent me so many things. So it's something that maybe you don't see on other beauty pageants, but you see it there.

Manila Bulletin: As Miss International, what are the causes or advocacy you promote?

Andrea: Right now, I'm working a lot of my masterclass where I teach girls to work on what they have with their body, their confidence, how to work also their communication skills that is so important in every field you are in and I've been doing that in my country and Colombia. So it's growing a lot. And it makes me proud because I love teaching other girls with what I have. Maybe I'm not 40 years old, but I've been learning a lot from this experience, making the modeling career as an audio-visual communicator, how to work on your social media in the right way, how to work with brands. So that's what I teach in this masterclass.

Manila Bulletin: Do you know beauty pageants are very popular in the Philippines?

Andrea: Yeah, it's impressive! It's just how it is in Venezuela, only in a few places when you will win a crown. It's very similar. We have a lot of beauty queens that have worn a crown, and it's just how we got it in Venezuela. When we see Catriona (Gray), it's like, wow, a big icon for us, really. Yes, because there's so much love for beauty pageants in our country, something cultural that we share.

Manila Bulletin: On Sunday, July 7, we will crown the next Philippine representative to Miss International. What qualities is the Miss international Organization looking for in the next winner?

Andrea: a very respectful woman who can speak for herself and has a lot of communication skills. It is good working with other people that she is a good learner because you have to learn a lot from Miss International. She's a person who's willing to work hard—one year traveling to the world that's organized. Only some have the opportunity to travel the world. So, it's an opportunity that she has to be proud of and take advantage of her experience.

Miss International 2023 Andrea Rubio (right) with Binibining Pilipinas queens 

Manila Bulletin: Your advice to young girls who want to become a beauty queen.

Andrea: The beauty pageant is much more than having just a pretty face. It has the opportunity to speak and communicate with so many people. It's a huge window. The window in Filipino is the same in Spanish. When there is a huge window, you must open it for yourself, your career, your profession, and your growth. It's a huge opportunity.

Manila Bulletin: A celebrity you look up to?

Andrea: Tyra Banks. She has her own America's Next Top Model. I looked up to her when I was little. And she was the kind of personality and energy I wanted to have. She inspires me a lot because she's funny. She can be anything. She's very versatile. So, she inspired me a lot when I was a little girl. I was on a reality show similar to America's Next Top Model in Colombia. But it was girls and boys. Yeah, I won! And it was for the popular vote in Colombia. Even if I am not a Colombian, people supported me. So it was huge.

Manila Bulletin: What are your plans after your reign as Miss International 2023?

Andrea: This has been a big push on my career. I would love to be on TV. I would love to have my own business. And I am still growing my masterclass. I would love an online course to give girls the tools they need to become stronger in their careers. And yeah, I keep working on my visual skills and social media because it's something I like. So I would love to be part of the new TV.