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Q&A with Miss World Philippines 2018 Candidate No. 19 Jerelleen Rodriguez

Posted by Norman on October 1, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , , .

“Successful women are called exceptional because there WAS an idea that they did not have what it takes to get there. I envision a society where this exception is the new standard.” – Jerelleen Rodriguez

No one should be put down just because of their gender. Let us continue to lead and push forward in this direction. Together, let us break away from stereotypes and stand for inclusivity, equality, and diversity.

To say that Miss World Philippines 2018 Candidate No. 19 Jerelleen Rodriguez is an achiever would be an understatement. She continues to fluorish in three (3) different disciplines – teaching, accountancy and law. And she fulfills the demands of each with the grace and humility of a true Professional.

Read my online Q&A with the “Profesora” below:


1. What sets you apart from the 39 other candidates of MWP?

“I’ve only entered the world of pageantry this year and I can say that the best experience I had was having to meet ladies from different walks of life, all equally amazing in different ways. I would sometimes stare at awe and just start [low-key] fangirling on my co-candidates. But in the sea of beautiful, intelligent, and powerful ladies, what sets me apart is how deeply rooted I am in the service to my country as a way of giving back for what it has given me. I have been giving back by way of teaching to students from every region of the country who take my classes in UP, with the hope that they will excel, replicate or even exceed my accomplishments and hopefully, give back to their respective communities. As a beauty queen, representing my community, and hopefully, the Philippines, is going as far as I can go in espousing the values of honor and excellence, and to give back every accomplishment to the Filipino people as they are the reason (as an iskolar ng bayan) for getting where I am today.”

2. You are into several disciplines from the academe to the fields of Accountancy and Law. How have these specializations helped form the character in becoming the person that you are right now?

“The greatest lesson I learned from getting my degree and pursuing more in the academe is discipline and commitment. I spent hours reviewing and practicing exercises for my exams. I answer any exam booklet I could get my hands on. Once I finished everything, I’ll do it again. This time, with a different approach. So that no matter how the examiners phrase the problem, I will be able to answer it. This is the same discipline I’ve been applying now. The discipline of continuously practicing and the commitment to achieving my goal is what keeps me focused. I once thought of Accountancy as something that is not for me. I failed some of my major exams even if I thought I did all I could. But then i started thinking that what if it is really for me and I just didn’t do enough. So I committed myself into always giving my all. Until the system actually kicks me out, I will stay, I will fight, I will win.”

3. What good will it do the Miss World Philippines Organization if you win one of the titles on October 7?

“The best thing that the Miss World Philippines Organization has done for me is that I learned to accept myself. I learned to know that I am strong without any titles; that if you strip off the profesora, the CPA, the beauty queen, I will still be strong and beautiful as Jerelleen Alix Rodriguez. And this is what I want to share with everyone else. Right now, I know I can stand up for my self, but with a crown, it gives me the power to stand up for others. Miss World Philippines Organization will be able to get a testament of how they changed one girl’s life, and transformed her into a queen.“

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Q&A with Miss World Philippines 2018 Candidate #30 Rose Marie Murphy

Posted by Norman on September 30, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , .

Earlier this year, Rose Marie Murphy tried her luck in Bb. Pilipinas 2018 and was fortunate enough to make it as one of the Official Candidates – #Binibini5 – in the competition. It was a rewarding experience for this beautiful Butuanon who stepped out of her shell and mustered the confidence to put forth her biggest appearance on the national pageant stage.

This time, Rose is in the midst of the beehive of pre-pageant activities for Miss World Philippines 2018 as Candidate No. 30. So far, she has made it as finalist in the Talent Challenge and will perform during next week’s Charity Gala Night. Check out my exclusive online one-on-one with her:

1. What sets you apart from the 39 other candidates of MWP?

“I believe that the qualities that really set me apart from my co-candidates are my life experiences. My father is an American and my mother is Filipina. I grew up in the province of Agusan del Norte and learned deep Filipino values. I witnessed the hardships that our fellow citizens face, and has first-hand experience living in a rural community. But even during the tough times, you can always see the smile on their faces. I believe that this kind of values plus resilience – to keep on fighting and fighting – are the most important lessons that I learned in my life. Though the color of my skin might be different, my heart will always be as a Filipino.”

2. Your profession may be nursing but your talent is dancing (reason why you made top 7 in talent). How has this helped form the character in becoming the person that you are right now?

“As a nurse, every day is a challenge. There are a variety of situations where you will encounter difficult scenarios, and there are times that it will test your limits. You are a caring hand to the people in need, yet you are also prone to different kinds of disease. Through my experiences as a nurse, I learned to be patient, disciplined in every instance, determined in every step and understanding of other people. Being a nurse helped me to be a better person. My performance showcases tribal dancing in Agusan del Norte, and with every step in every move, it portraits the very lessons I learned in being a nurse.“

3. What good will it do the Miss World Philippines Organization if you win one of the titles on October 7?

“I used to be a very shy and skinny young girl with low self-esteem until the day came when I have learned to embrace the beauty that I have in me and started to join and win local beauty pageants which paved the way for me to join the most prestigious beauty pageants in our country today. And this is precisely why there is the Miss World Philippines – to showcase the beauty and advocacy of women who embrace not only their outer but inner beauty as well, who have become women of substance through the years of experience, women who pursue advocacy in the fields they set their sights in and – modesty aside – I strongly believe that I am that woman who deserves to earn the title of Miss World Philippines 2018.“


Credits for the evening gown pictorial of Rose –
Hair & Make Up | Paolo Adrian Mondejar Castillon
Designers | Kim & King Creatives (Kim Amora & King Aranchado), Rhoey Gulde Bernat
Wardrobe Assistant | Mychal John Ceniza
Stylist | Clubby Aggy
Photography | Yul N. Jimenez
Studio | Terra Nostra

Q&A with Miss World Philippines Candidate #10 Paulina Labayo

Posted by Norman on September 26, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , .


It is not easy pinning down the Miss World Philippines 2018 Official Candidates for an online interview because of their busy schedules. So it warms my heart that #10 Paulina Labayo was able to indulge me with substantial answers on a few questions.

This lady is one of the underdogs in the competition this year. She does not have the popularity of a Katarina Rodriguez or the huge fan base of Pearl Hung. But on a stand-alone basis, she knows how to make herself stand out – both in words and in actions.

1) What sets you apart from the 39 other candidates of MWP?
“I have great respect to all of the candidates since most of them are more achieved and experience than i am at this point, so I just want to express how much I’m grateful to be competing with them! I consider myself a newbie and a total underdog in this game which i think is an advantage more than a disadvantage for me. My ‘innocence’ in pageantry keeps me charged and excited all the time! Everything just seems to amaze me so it’s automatic to stay attentive and positive in all situations, good or bad. Also, I get to discover a lot of new interests and capabilities about myself which is exciting for me as well. I think what sets me apart is the way I perceive this competition. I treat this pageant as a test of resilience and character of oneself. I never base my performance on my co-candidates or draw any comparisons because I believe in self-actualization being an effective empowerment for your benefit and for others as well. Because of that, I am naturally gentle and friendly. I can’t exactly say that I am fearlessly aggressive in competing because of my approach, but I believe that it’s the key in being able to do your best in this pageant and enjoy while you’re at it!”

2) Your talent is ballet dancing. How has this helped form the character in becoming the person that you are right now?

“From flexibility, poise, stage presence and even some quick stage make-up skills, ballet had taught me a lot. But I think the most important thing that I’ve learned is how to be gracious and graceful. My sister and I are lucky enough to be supported by our family in our passion. It is not very simple as it entails consistency, extra effort and expense. I’ve seen how hands-on my dad was when he would tirelessly bring us to every class and fix our ballet bun even though he had no clue how to at first. His efforts and determination are the ones that inspired me to try to be as persevering as he is. I am truly grateful for the wonderful experiences and opportunities born out of dancing. My ballet teachers and friends, who are like sisters to me, are also a big part of forming who I am today. Growing up together and helping each other on stage and off stage really builds a bond that is irreplaceable. Ultimately, ballet has been my source of happiness and fulfillment, an outlet that keeps me optimistic and passionate in my perspectives in life. I learned how to be graceful not just in the aspect of dance but also in character. I am able to apply this grace by treating other people with humility and respect. Today, ballet is now an avenue for me to earn, help, develop, and even advocate through teaching children. Without all those exoerience, I wouldn’t be confident enough to tell myself that I am equipped to be Miss World.”

3) What good will it do the Miss World Philippines Organization if you win one of the titles on October 7?

“As I’ve said, Miss World is a test of resilience and character. Anyone who will win, possesses that strength and is capable of bringing light and life to the vision of the organization. I am working hard towards being able to be that person the organization can depend on. In the event that I am chosen as the winner of one of the titles, I would magnify the organization’s true goal of promoting one’s purpose in her own special way. I am a person who is more focused on the intention rather than the presentation because I believe that who you are inside will reflect no matter what you do. I am hopeful that I am worthy of shining light on to others and be a blessing. I believe that through that, beauty is truly manifested. I am looking forward in being able to represent such noble organization and be that leader and image of hope and kindness not just through my advocacy but by also helping the advocacy of others.”

Alyssa Muhlach Alvarez sets her sight on winning Miss World Philippines 2018

Posted by Norman on September 17, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , , , , , .


During yesterday afternoon’s Meet-and-Greet with Miss World Philippines 2018 Official Candidate Alyssa Muhlach Alvarez, she was a tireless bundle of energy who hopped from one guest to another and answered questions like a pro. I was actually impressed with her readiness with replies on an assortment of topics ranging from her advocacy to being single-handedly raised by her actress-mother to current events and even quick queries about her preparations for the competition. She is definitely not bothered by having strong fellow candidates like Katarina Rodriguez, Maureen Montagne and Kim de Guzman to compete with. And being the unofficial flag bearer of KF camp motivates her even more to do well.

Mind you, she is dead-set on winning the Miss World Philippines 2018 crown no less. And she knows what it takes to be the deserving recipient of that honor.

Check out my quick one-on-one with her mother Almira Muhlach who is super supportive of her daughter’s bid in pageantry.


I remember asking Alyssa who among her KF sisters she will bring to the Top 4 if she gets the biggest crown. She did not hesitate to name Chanel Morales, Jerelleen Rodriguez and Paulina Labayo. She is quick to clarify, though, that the biggest challenge is to step up to her own expectations. And regardless of who the other winners will be, she is ready and able to become a good ambassador for the MWPO brand itself.

Best of luck in the journey, Yssa!

normannorman.com Exclusive: Interview with Miss Universe Guam 2018 Contestant Noelle Fuentes Uy-Tuazon

Posted by Norman on July 29, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , , , , .


She has made the rounds of Miss World Philippines 2017 and Miss Earth Philippines 2018. She learned her lessons from both attempts and prepared well for her next pageant foray. This time, Noelle Fuentes Uy-Tuazon is upping the ante with her Miss Universe Guam 2018 candidacy. If she wins the title come August 15, then a third Filipina will form the roster of candidates for Miss Universe 2018 (our very own Catriona Gray and Angeline Flor Pua of Belgium are the first two).

I tracked down Noelle for an exclusive one-on-one. Here goes:

Q: What led you to joining Miss Universe Guam 2018?

”To be honest, this was very much last minute and a surprise to me as well. After Miss Earth Philippines, I had every intention of exploring the political field before pursuing my masters. However, Tito Rodgil Flores, Georgette Garrido, Designer Cathy Mora-Capistrano, Mommy Erica (MUA of KF) and the KF camp were trying to convince me to join another pageant due to the year’s worth of training that I’ve endured. Sayang daw ready na daw ako. So initially I said I would think about it – perhaps Miss Scuba Philippines, since my cousin – Rufos Tapas owner Paul Reyes was encouraging me to join right after coronation. Honestly I was about to go on a trip to Guam with my mom to visit family. They had lots of sales prospects but then I had too many projects that I was doing, like the bugna it in tangalan on coral transplanting rehabilitation of my uncles. Long story short, Sir Migz and my mom were talking about Miss USA that they jokingly said ‘why haven’t you tried out in the U.S. since you’re an American citizen and truly grew up there?’. I said it’s already too much. I need to go back to my field, plus it usually starts January so I’m old and I need to retire from pageantry. But since my mom wanted to fly badly to Guam for vacation, Sir Migz jokingly said why not Miss Guam? Later that week I got a message of a poster of Miss Universe Guam 2018 search. I was hesitant, thinking that I might have already missed the deadline for submission. My mom said why not shoot them an email it wouldn’t hurt, plus I used to live in Guam for a couple years as a child (back when there was Game Works) and I do owe Guam my U.S. citizenship. So one email led to another and then I applied and the organization asked if I could fly ASAP so I completed training one-on-one with Tito Rodgil with a week’s worth of prep time secretly because we really didn’t know what to expect. Then next thing I knew I was on a plane with 4 luggages accompanied by my mom.”

Q: Would you consider it a big vindication of sorts if you win the Miss Universe Guam 2018 crown?

“I wouldn’t say it’s a big vindication because honestly, pageantry wasn’t something I expected at all back then being a Scientist and all. If I would be fortunate enough to win, it would just truly be an achievement and a dream come true for both myself and my mom as well as the KF camp and my family/friends from everywhere. I’ve lived in so many places that it’s hard to single out people. If I win, I’m truly looking forward to using the platform for positive change towards the betterment of society as idealistic as that sounds and most especially promoting Guam on a bigger scale. I’ve always had roots here since 6 months old. My mom would fly me back and forth. She even worked as a beauty consultant back then here in Guam. I love the ocean and I am able to appreciate Guam even more now as an adult as opposed to when I was a child. I see a lot of future here.

Q: What is your take on other countries selecting ladies with Filipino roots as their representative to big international pageants?

“I have mixed emotions on ladies with Pinoy roots representing other countries in international pageants. I didn’t take pageants seriously back in college. I never thought about the more complex aspects, but after having done two national pageants, I feel that everyone has a right to join as long as they meet the qualifications. Most importantly, I believe that if a candidate has the drive and intrinsic motivation coupled with passion they should be given the opportunity. At the end of the day, we are all scientifically under one species – Homo sapiens – aka humans so it’s just a matter of perspective. Lastly, everything is relative. As long as one follows the rules, meets the requirements and tries to do their best then all the more power to them!“

Best of luck in Miss Universe Guam 2018, Noelle!

Photo credit: Jino Wil Fredo Esteban

Maria Samantha Celis: From the Province of Tarlac she comes

Posted by Norman on January 5, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , .

Last year, KF Tarlac brought us #PilotBeautyQueen Nelda Ibe who eventually won the Bb. Pilipinas Globe crown and went on to place 1st Runner-Up in The Miss Globe held in Tirana, Albania. This time around, the same group prepared an International Flight Attendant who goes by the name of Maria Samantha Celis.

Sam is no stranger to beauty pageants, especially in her province of Tarlac where she held the titles of Miss Tarlac State University 2009, Miss Teen Tarlac City 2010, Miss Tarlac City 2013 and Mutya ng Lalawigan ng Tarlac 2014. She graduated Magna cum Laude from Far Eastern University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism Management. These achievements helped a lot in clinching her first job as FA in a local airline company before moving up to her current one for Saudia Airlines – something she passionately enjoys being an avid traveler.

In the public speaking department, she also had her share of the limelight in the past after having represented her university in various nationwide Academic Extemporaneous Speaking contests.

Sam is a brainy 24 year-old who stands 5’6.5” and measures 34-25-35. She will submit her Bb. Pilipinas 2018 application tomorrow – January 6 – along with some of the other #KF2018 beauties.

Patrizia Mariah L. Garcia: She’s All Set!

Posted by Norman on January 4, 2018
Posted in: 1 Pageant Pages, 2 Shout-out-Looks. Tagged: , , , , , , .

Now here is another Kagandahang Flores (KF) entry for Bb. Pilipinas 2018. And she is a familiar face (and person) to your blogger. After all, she is one of the endorsers of Belmeré Skin Care Centre and we have had more than a few face-to-face encounters in the recent past.

Patrizia Mariah L. Garcia – or Pat for short – is a De La Salle University graduate who now works as an Account Manager for Globe Telecoms. She stands 5’7” and is actually a morena-like beauty who can make heads turn quite easily. She has prepared long and hard for the chance to become a Binibini. And if she does qualify and starts competing, I reckon that she could be someone like last year’s 2nd Runner-Up Kristel Guelos – a surprise performer in the nationals.

Let’s see how Pat will strike you once the screenings get underway.