From a reliable source, it looks like two of the five winners from last year’s Miss Philippines Earth won’t be around to crown their successors this afternoon at The Cove in Okada Manila.

First, there is Miss Philippines Ecotourism 2018 Halimatu Yushawu who – midway during her term – went back to her hometown in Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay and never returned to the disappointment of the organizers. Efforts were made to make her return to Manila and fulfill her duties and responsibilities. But to no avail. I was told that she realized what she has done belatedly, but was no longer allowed to return to the fold after incurring the ire of Carousel Productions.

And now, reigning Miss Philippines Earth Celeste Cortesi will reportedly be a no-show later as well. She allegedly failed to fulfill her duties and responsibilities, just like Halimatu. A dethronement would have been automatic. But the pageant owners must’ve decided not to make a big deal of the situation anymore. It is likely that one of our former Miss Earth winners (or perhaps the duo of Ramon Monzon and Lorraine Schuck) will crown the new titleholder.

Somehow, I already felt this coming with Celeste shortly after she represented us in Miss Earth 2018. There were less-than-pleasant reports sounded off to me. The Fil-Italian girl is very sweet and charming. But the answer lies in that statement – she is just a girl whose lifestyle, cultural upbringing and preferences might not be in sync with what is expected of a Miss Philippines Earth Winner.

Let’s see if a surprise appearance will still happen later. After all, she was not openly stripped of her title. Yet.