Read the new post on Stephanie Retuya HERE!

It’s only Week #2 of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1, and the show has already been stormed by three shockers (well, okay the third one was a mild one and anticipated at that) and two of them are not even part of the script. But that’s getting ahead of the story. Let’s get to the update first.

As the remaining 13 girls continue their journey into becoming Asia’s Next Top Model, they were surprised to find out that another runway challenge awaits all of them. Most of the ladies asked tips from the more experienced Trang of Vietnam on how to nail their walk, but still had to make do with whatever skills they have, just like Sofia of Japan who initially doubted the coaching given by the Vietnamese and decided to just polish her own glide.

The following morning, they were surprised with the initial visit from their mentor Joey Mead, with Australia’s Next Top Model choreographer/runway coach Adam Williams in tow. The flamboyant Aussie gave them lessons in Runway 101 before heading off to their next stop.

The first test of the day was a Private VIP viewing at the uber classy French fine dining place L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon. The designer is not just one of Singapore’s top names in fashion, but also all over Asia – Thomas Wee. During the actual activity, majority met the judges’ expectations, with both Trang and Sofia picked as standouts. After the event wrapped up, host Nadya informed the girls that the best of the lot would be rewarded with dinner at the same venue where she can bring two of her competitors. Trang was announced the winner once more (her second consecutive runway win) and decided to take her roommates Aastha of Nepal and Stephanie of the Philippines.

Since it was her birthday, Helena of Hongkong was half-expecting to be chosen by Trang for the lovely dinner, but to no avail. So while the trio enjoyed the expensive meal, the rest of the girls made a group greeting card for Helena, cooked pasta for dinner, and surprised the celebrant with all-around red kisses on the face. After the return of the three who dined out, a certain air of coldness permeate inside the house. Some of them were questioning the inclusion of an experienced contender (Trang) against newbies (everyone else) in the line-up. Stephanie was quick to defend her friend in this case.

In the Harper’s Bazaar Photoshoot Challenge the day after, the models were divided into three groups (with Helena, Filantropi of Indonesia, Kate of Taiwan and Monica of Thailand in one; Aastha, Bei Si of China, Trang and Sofia in the second; and Stephanie, Jessica of Thailand, Melissa of Malaysia, Rachel of India and Jee of Korea last). Group shots were taken while wearing the latest collection of Prada. The magazine’s Fashion Editor Kenneth Goh was very strict and never sugar-coated his criticisms of the ones who did poorly – Filantropi, Stephanie and Jee.

That night, Shocker #1 followed. Monica of Thailand received a call from home informing of a family emergency (her dad was seriously ill) that forced her to pack immediately and leave the competition. The girls were saddened but none moreso than Kate of Taiwan who has grown close to the bubbly Thai. With that, the group suddenly went from 13 to a dozen.

During judging time the next day, it was announced that winner of the Group Shots (which will be the subject of a future editorial) was the second quartet. Individual assessments followed, and just before Filantropi took center runway, Shocker #2 struck. Rachel suddenly collapsed in the middle of filming and had to be rushed to the hospital for checkup. No updates were given about her condition up to the end of the show, but I think she will be alright.

Everything resumed after that incident. The individual winner was announced with Aastha taking the recognition and Sofia as runner-up.

The qualifiers were summoned one by one, up until only the bottom two were left uncalled by Nadya – Stephanie (!) and Jee. Shocker #3 was revealed. Because of Monica’s unforeseen exit, there will be no elimination! Whew! It was a good save for the Philippines’ bet.

Onwards with the show!

Always watch Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 1 on Star World, Sundays at 8:55PM.

You can also check out (and like) their Facebook page here. 😉