More than two years ago today – the 22nd of November 2016 to be exact – Catriona Gray, who was then the reigning Miss World Philippines, was given her official sendoff to Miss World 2016 at the C3 Events Place Greenhills. I was able to corner her to sing a few lines in Tagalog (or Filipino if you will). Watch the first video above.
Now if you click the second video below, she gave her greetings to the readers of normannorman.com.
Just imagine, had Catriona won Miss World 2016, then the right photos of her as Miss Universe 2018 (courtesy of The Nation Bangkok and PentyDynamics) would not happen and there just might be no BIG reason for the Philippines’ major celebration in pageantry.
Hers is the Bb. Pilipinas 2018 candidacy that can be considered a much-ballyhooed pageant extravaganza in itself. Even weeks before the actual filing of application to the day that she showed up at the BPCI Office, the cheers and crowd support of fans and supporters remained unwavering. Intrigues started to erupt the moment she declared her Independent status in the competition, inspite of the expectations of many that she is an Aces & Queens entry. Not a few complained the sketchy arrangement of support that she will get fromn the said beauty camp or the individuals who are backing up her bid with such zealous enthusiasm. In the end, she made clear once and for all that she is indeed an Independent through and through.
That spawned more controversial attacks on her journey as a Binibini. There were rumors that this beautiful Fil-Aussie is starting to feel the alienation of sorts from people she spent days, weeks and months with. At any rate, Cat stood tall and held her ground amidst the bashings that followed. Very recently, there were malicious postings from individuals who created separate Facebook accounts using the names of Ian and Normita – her parents. That could be the pinnacle of a smear campaign, inspite of every pageant enthusiast in the know who can attest to the dignity and reputation of her elders.
Be that as it may, Cat continues to dodge all the bullets coming her way. In just a matter of days, we will all know if the highest crown will land on top of her head and become the very first Philippine candidate to represent us in both Miss World and Miss Universe.
From being Miss World Philippines 2016 4th Princess, Sandra Lemonon crossed over to Bb. Pilipinas 2018 as your #Binibini35. She is very pleased with the move:
“I couldn’t be happier in being a Binibini because I get the chance to share who I am as a person & what I believe in.
I’ve always believed that kindness is a universal language. And being kind to one another is the first step to respect & understanding of each others’ differences.
I want to share to everyone that true beauty comes from the heart.
I grew up in 3 different cultures & I thought that it was “normal” for everyone to accept diversity. Sadly, this is not the case. I have been through moments where I was judged because of my backround and I do not want anyone to feel that pain, or feel like they always need to fit in.
This is why I couldn’t be happier in being part of Bb. Pilipinas 2018 because it allows me to share my voice and I would like to use this platform hopefully not just to the Philippines but around the world. We should be kinder in learning to accept diversity & be more inclusive so that we can all be better & happier people.”
What personal trait/s will help you gain a firmer hold in the quest for a major crown?
“I would say it has to be my willingness to learn & it never hurts to be kind too. Each day I always learn something new, even if it is just something little. I find this very important because I always have something new to share. What’s more, I become a better and knowledgable Sandra.”
Watch your #Binibini35 in her personal interview video below.
No need for a lengthy introduction here, since your Binibini 20 Catriona Gray is already the face of Bb. Pilipinas 2018 this early in the competition. And that means she is currently installed as the top favorite of most everyone at this point in time. But let us allow the edition to go its normal course because this is a contest still on the road to reaching its peak.
For now, let us watch Cat’s personal interview video:
Last Sunday night, your blogger spent some personal talk time with the beautiful Catriona Gray when we were seated beside each other during the birthday celebration of Col. Ricardo Nolasco Jr PAF (Ret) of Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center at Forum 1 of Solaire Resort and Casino.
Truth be told, Cat was nursing a fever that night but gamely attended the event since she is the new “World-Class Beauty” endorser of the premiere pageant destination in the country with a video launched during the proceedings.
Cat was visibly surprised and worried about all the spreading talks and rumors about transferring beauty camps which she simply dismissed as small talks from different people which got bigger but totally untrue. If at any, she is more concerned on whether she should really take the risk of joining Bb. Pilipinas. If a yes, there is even uncertainty on whether she would take part in the 2018 or 2019 edition. At 23, she still has the luxury of waiting it out for another year or two. After all, there will only be one – and only one – title she would be interested in pursuing.
Let us give Cat that extra time to mull over matters first. And I will keep you on the loop with whatever move she finally decides to take.
In the meantime, here is a video of Cat singing a Norah Jones song during the said birthday bash.
Miss World Philippines 2016 and Miss World 2016 3rd Runner-up Catriona Gray is teamed up with Misters of Filipinas – Man of the World 2017 Clint Karklins as image models for the launch of the Bragais™ line. Here’s the pitch:
Smell good and be more Attractive with BRAGAIS™ Perfume!
Yours at a very affordable introductory price of Php 399 for women Php 420 for men!
Comes with a good box and paper bag that is just perfect gift for this holiday season.
Limited Stocks only….
If you haven’t started with your Holiday Shopping yet, then I offer these items for your consideration.
And they smell real good too!
You can place your orders online – just like you would his famous heels – via the FB page of Bragais Shoes
Still Triumphant Featuring Catriona Gray on Spotted Magazine
Catriona Elisa still reigns as queen in the minds and hearts of her many supporters.
Photography Von Oneil Buenconsejo
Assisted by Rron de Guzman & Charlon Serrano
Styling Patrick Henry
Videography Jolo Luarca
Hair & Make Up Sharmaine Cantillon De Castro
Interview Liselle Delantar Flipphi
Accessories Phil Andal Soigenne Dei PhilAndal
Wardrobe Uberfinds Vintage Fashion Store Uberfinds Vintage Fashion Store
Location House Manila Official
House Manila
To read the interview visit http://www.spottedmagazine.co/2017/09/28/catriona-gray-interview/
Ever since Miss World Philippines 2016 Catriona Gray was talked about as possibly joining Bb. Pilipinas 2018, not a few among those who are planning to sign up for the next edition felt a cold shiver in their spines. Some are saying that the highest title is almost a given for this beautiful and charming Fil-Aussie. And I have told colleagues that it would really be best for her to take part in a beauty contest with several titles at stake. That way, the other candidates won’t feel left out in the hunt for a crown.
What are your thoughts, dear readers?
In the meantime, enjoy her photos for Designer Leo Almodal with styling by Patrick Henry, HMUA Sharms de Castro and photography by Ahleks Fusilero.
This Kapampangan beauty is an independent candidate of Bb. Pilipinas 2017
Here we go with your Binibini 23 who is another independent candidate in Bb. Pilipinas 2017. And she is not one to be ruffled by the collective groups of the two big camps. She mixes well with everyone, and is actually the friendly soul who goes through the competition with an open mind and a lot of heart. Let us welcome her:
“I’m Arah Alvero Salientes, 21, representing the City of San Fernando Pampanga.
I graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Travel Management and with all humility, I finished Cum Laude.
My family has always been my source of strength in everything that I do, especially now that I’m an Official Candidate of Binibining Pilipinas. As a family oriented person, I want to impart to other people what our traditions are, so that we can work hand-in-hand with the community to help us with our small acts of kindness; reaching out to sisters and monks of Carmelite because they are the true models of women today who are empowered and has a say on how to make the world a better place even in their own simple ways.
In the future and after I finish Binibining Pilipinas, I want to pursue Law because it’s my dad’s dream for me to finish law…As a future lawyer I will promote equality and respect to promote women empowerment even more.”
And how does Arah size herself up as a Binibini?
“Being a Binibini is more than just the title itself. It entails the real meaning of beauty which is more than just the aesthetics. Binibini values the core of women empowerment with grace and humility. It’s my first time joining Binibining Pilipinas and I’m more than thankful to be participating in one of the most prestigious pageants in the Philippines. People ask me why Binibini, simple, because, this is Binibining Pilipinas. I believe that it takes a lot of perseverance and determination. But the gainful experience and the opportunities that it contributes is something that I should be proud of. That it can give me a chance to be an inspiration to others, with humility in all aspects. I could say that my edge among the rest of the girls is that I finished my education first, for me to be knowledgeable and be able to develop my wisdom and using this wisdom to contribute for the betterment of our society.”
courtesy of Beauty Pageant Updates
Arah with one of the kid patients of Operation Smile Philippines
Arah Salientes is gearing up for the biggest challenge in her life so far, but will enjoy the entire journey as well. It will always be tough to assume that a victory is already at hand because the field of contenders is strong. But this Kapampangan charmer is here to prove her worth.
Let’s share about your thoughts on Binibini 23, dear readers. 🙂
Your Binibini 8 crossed over from Miss World Philippines to Bb. Pilipinas
Last year was the first time we saw Leitz Camyll Ang competed in a national beauty pageant when she took part in Miss World Philippines. Earlier this year, she was part of a blog about the MAC make-up workshop for the 65th Miss Universe where she was one of the face models the artists worked on. This year, she is pushing the envelope with a successful screening for Bb. Pilipinas. She is your Binibini 8 – a lucky number for the Chinese (our subject is Fil-Chi).
Here now is Leitz, in her own words:
“I’m Leitz Camyll M. Ang, 24 years old from Malabon City. I’m half Filipino and half Chinese. I graduated from San Beda College Manila with a degree in Accountancy. I’m now a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). For the past two years, I worked as an Assurance Associate at Sycip, Gorres, Velayo & Company. Currently, I’m helping manage the family business while practicing my profession. I’m a grgandmother’s girl and growing up close to her is the reason I want to establish a home for the senior citizens in the future.
I feel honored and happy to finally be an Official Candidate of Binibining Pilipinas 2017. I’ve always wanted to join this pageant ever since I was seven years old. I am also excited for the journey ahead and for the time I will spend with my new sisters.”
Below is the video that included Leitz Camyll as a face model during the aforementioned MAC Cosmetics Workshop. She is the second lady to be made up in the clip.
Leitz Camyll Ang during the Aces &a Queens Presentation Show when she was still wearing Pin #2
Contrary to what others may think of CPAs as relatively boring personalities, Leitz Camyll is the opposite. She can be the life of any given activity, and makes sure thay everyone is at ease and comfortable in sharing and bonding.
Hi! Norman here. When I'm not working, I spend most of my free time planning on daily blogs. If you will notice, I always make sure that a fresh topic comes out everyday - not an easy thing to do but it's all good. Thanks for dropping by and enjoy the visit!
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