This has got to be one of the most difficult Final Predictions that I have done so far. In fact, I am accompanying this write up with a photo grid of all the twenty-six (26) Official Candidates to give credit to all their united efforts in presenting to us a competition that can be considered mainstream by now. With the country franchise of Miss International Queen finally awarded to CEO and National Director Michelle Montecarlo, it follows that a proper national pageant be staged for everyone to see and appreciate.

And so, it breaks my heart that only ten (10) ladies will make the one and only cut with three (3) winners being eventually crowned – one Miss International Queen Philippines and two (2) runners-up.

Yes, considering the quality of contenders, there should have been more titleholders. But then again, having only one top finisher is a way of establishing prestige in its inaugural outing. Have the best of the absolute best shine all the way to Pattaya, Thailand, win the bigger international title and hopefully continue to become a source of inspiration – not just to the pride-filled LGBTQIA+ community but also to the rainbow members of the Filipino youth and senior citizens who continue to strengthen the once-marginalized group.

Without further ado, I will only be presenting seven (7) names who – from my vantage point – have what it takes to become the ultimate Queen. I wanted to do the whole nine yards and present ten (10) names. But that will somehow spoil the unnamed candidates who also gave their best. If I give ten, then chances are that I might include 2-3 alternates who would tip the balance in favor of the 50% cited. Might as well just give the spotlight on seven so the rest will do their best till the winners are announced.

My Seven Choices

Anyone among them can be THE ONE.

Minorka Mendoza – Leyte
Lars Pacheco – Misamis Oriental
Patricia Payumo – Quezon City
Anne Patricia Lorenzo – City of Manila
Maria Hard – Balamban, Cebu
Sheila Magpale – South Cotabato
Rui Mariano – Antipolo City

If these ladies fall short of expectations come March 6, then it will be a wide playing field for the rest. One or more among the 19 remaining candidates can make the move up and claim their slice/s of destiny.

I salute all the Official Candidates for a job well done. And I doff my hat to the core group behind it all – Michelle Montecarlo, Roderic dela Cruz, Andrea Aliman and Tei Endencia.

Mabuhay kayo!