What can you say about the performance of our bet, Venus Raj, in the 2010 Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas?

Venus Raj

The Philippine Star

Rico Fabello, Parañaque City: To make it to the top 5 was already a glorious feat. Congratulations Venus! You are my Ms. Universe.

Edwin Chinel Monares, Rizal: It was good enough, although a little more training could have made a difference.

Speak in Filipino

Pedro Alagano Sr., Vigan City: She did her best but it was not enough to replicate the feats of former Ms. Universe winners Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran. I think we have the right candidates but our strategy needs revision. We must remember that the final interview portion always makes the difference, so I suggest that the next time around, even if our contestant is fluent in English, she should answer the question in Filipino, not only to emphasize our identity but also because our bet can be more confident.

Gerii Calupitan, Muntinlupa City: May pagka-trying hard, unlike Gloria Diaz, Margie Moran and Aurora Pijuan, who were all natural for the part. Ms. Raj was a victim of showbiz lingo.

Arnie Domingo, Quezon City: I echo the sentiment of others that our future representatives to the Ms. Universe pageant should be told not to hesitate to ask for an interpreter and answer judges’ questions in the language or dialect that they are most comfortable with.

Exceptional beauty

Juna Beatriz Corpuz, Cabanatuan City: I am very proud and happy for our bet in the 2010 Ms. Universe pageant, Venus Raj. She is very gorgeous and intelligent and she was able to show that Filipina beauty will always stand out from the crowd.

Ressy Jaimie Cabacungan, Cabanatuan City: Venus Raj is awesome, even if there are criticisms about her answer to the final question, which I think she only answered truthfully based on her experiences.

Forgettable answer

Ishmael Q. Calata, Parañaque City: Venus Raj blew her chance to romp away with the Miss Universe crown with her rather forgettable answer to the final question. It was obvious that she was the darling of the crowd based on the applause given each contestant during the announcement of the top 15, the top 10 and top five candidates. Sayang.

Lucas Banzon Madamba, USA: She missed the opportunity to capture the crown because she missed the point of the final question. Anyway, at least, she was able to make it to the top 5.

Marc Avisado, Ilocos Sur: Venus Raj screwed-up the Q&A portion. She missed the opportunity. It would have been better if she had an English interpreter. Maybe she was being overconfident.

C.B. Manalastas, Manila: Sorry folks but, except for the sexy pose that caught the judges’ attention, Venus lacked brains in answering the final question.

L.C. Fiel, Quezon City: She was spectacular, yes, but in hindsight, I believe she could have done better.

Concepcion Gaspar, Laoag City: At least she did her best, but had she given a satisfactory answer, she would have bagged the crown.

Ric Vergara, Calamba: She was seeded from the start but her honest answer appeared to be her waterloo. But I am proud of her anyway.

Elpidio Que, Vigan: Venus stood by her name and made the country proud with her performance. But what blew her chance to win the Miss Universe crown was her wrong answer to William Baldwin’s question about her one major mistake.

Jim Veneracion, Naga City: Excellent, notwithstanding the difficult question posed for her to answer. She would have won the title by mentioning her dethronement issue.

Jeffrey Villar, Capiz: Venus’ thread just didn’t fit into the hole of the needle.

A real winner

Felix Ramento, USA: She would not have reached the Top 5 if she did not have the confidence and grace of a Miss Universe. She is definitely the new darling of our people. Thank you, Venus, for the honor.

Robert Young Jr., San Juan: Ms. Venus Raj could have won the Miss Universe pageant had it not been for the news on the police torture incident and the Luneta siege that came out before the pageant night in Las Vegas. In the hearts of many Filipinos, however, she is the real winner.

Germi Sison, Cabanatuan City: She was the crowd favorite due to her friendliness and graceful manner. Moreover, she never spoke about the predicament she went through back home before she finally got to compete in Las Vegas.

A feat in itself

Ferdinand Rafer, Cavite: Many criticize her because she fumbled in the question and answer portion, but the mere fact that she finished fifth among 83 contestants is already an accomplishment in itself.

Jenelie Binuya, Nueva Ecija: Having snatched the fifth rank in the Ms. Universe Pageant is already something to be proud of.

Deo Durante, Camarines Sur: Being in the top 5 was exemplary. Ms. Venus Raj has made our province, Camarines Sur, much known all over the world.

Rose Leobrera, Manila: She brought honor to the country. Though she ended up as 4th runner-up, I believe that is already an achievement. Her answer seemingly did not convince the judges and the audience because nobody in this world has not encountered a serious problem.

Surpassed expectations

Joe Nacilla, Las Piñas City: The performance of Ms. Raj was beyond expectations. We should be proud and give her the highest honor. If her answer to the final question did not convince the judge, it was a matter of opinion. The way she responded immediately showed her self-confidence.

Miguelito Herrera, Cabanatuan City: She did well. I was so proud of her performance in the recently concluded Miss Universe pageant. It will definitely open doors for Venus, even if she was only fourth runner-up.

Rey Ibalan, Antipolo City: The 4th runner up rank for our bet Venus is good enough. The 2010 Miss Universe crown was meant for a candidate more talented and beautiful than the rest.

Ret. Col. Ben Paguirigan Jr., Zamboanga City: Congratulations to Miss Venus Raj for winning the fifth spot in the latest Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas.

Joel Caluag, Bulacan: If she ended up 4th runner-up, then maybe she performed well.

Lydia Reyes, Bataan: Venus did her best. Every Filipino should be proud of her instead of criticizing her for her answer to the final question.

Armando Tavera, Las Piñas City: She made us proud by placing the Philippines once again in the world map. She’s so beautiful.

Rene Fuentes, Quezon City: Venus Raj did well in the Miss U pageant and we should all be proud of that.

Erwin Espinoza, Pangasinan: Quoting the words of Phil. Star columnist Joanne Rae Ramirez, ‘”Still and all, she is a winner. A major, major winner.”

Sofia Palado, Camarines Norte: Venus’ performance during the pageant was superb. I may be biased in my conclusion, but I can honestly say that she tried her best and was incredibly confident about winning the title.

Carmela Ramento, Cagayan de Oro City: Having made it to the top five is good enough for me.

Cris Rivera, Rizal: Her 5th place finish is more than enough. Telling the world she has yet to have one major mistake in life is incredible.

Ricardo Tolentino, Laoag City: Our bet Venus Raj went beyond our expectations with her fourth runner-up finish.

Ella Arenas, Pangasinan: Let us be thankful that although she did not get the Miss Universe crown, she ended up as 4th runner-up.

She got nervous

Maricel Maralit, Naga City: Being the fifth fairest in the Universe is not bad at all. She just got nervous during the question and answer portion.

Ella Arenas, Pangasinan: So far, so good. I found even the interview relevant and quite amusing. Maybe the question was not quite clear to her or she has not really encountered a “major, major” problem.

Vir Lauzon, General Santos City: Venus did a good job, except for the way she answered the final question asked by actor William Baldwin.

Leonard Villa, Batac City: Venus has beauty, grace and poise but obviously doesn’t possess the intellectual capability needed to bag the Miss Universe crown.

Dino Monzon, Caloocan City Ms. Raj could have been the winner if she took time to think before answering her question. She bungled it as her answer was naive, inane and childish.

Delfin Todcor, Quezon City: Ms. Venus Raj could have won the Miss Universe pageant if she answered well the question posed by the judge.

Jill Tabios, Nueva Ecija: I think she was just nervous in the question and answer portion so she wasn’t able to think of a better answer.

Elmo Cruz, Manila: She performed well so she placed fourth runner up. It could be her saying “major, major” instead of “big mistake” that cost her the crown.

Morale booster

Edwin Castillo, Tanauan City: Venus Raj could have been Miss Universe had she answered the question the other way around. But ranking 4th-runner up is already a morale booster for our country.

Larry Villacorta, Pasig City: She did just great. For all we know, the news on the hostage drama may have reached her and she may have been distracted by it.

Steve Gonzales, Nueva Vizcaya: Not perfect otherwise she would’ve ranked higher or even bagged the crown. But overall, Venus Raj painted a good image for our country.

C.B. Fundales, Bulacan: By reaching the finals of the Miss U contest, Miss Raj was able to show how beautiful the Philippines is.

Tino Abella, Masbate: Being in the Top 5 is already a big success. It may help lessen the negative effects of the hostage crisis on our tourism industry.

Humility is a virtue

Sheila Aldecoa, Bulacan: Venus exhibited poise, grace, elegance and beauty. I commend her for that. However, one of the traits of a Ms. Universe titleholder or any beauty queen, for that matter, is humility. Venus’ answer to the judge’s question simply did not show that. It gave the impression that she is not humble enough to admit a mistake she had in her life. Nobody is perfect but she projected that she was. And I think that was what caused her to slip to fifth place.

Comic twist

Rodolfo Talledo, Angeles City: Good enough. The major-major episode is a comic twist to lighten-up a somewhat stressful environment. It showed her wit.

Major, major delight

Jose Paolo dela Cruz, Makati City: Venus was a major, major delight, especially after that horrendous hostage-taking incident.

Angelique Esguerra, Nueva Ecija: Venus did not disappoint.

Jill Tabios, Nueva Ecija: Congratulations, Ms. Venus Raj! Being No. 5 out of 83 candidates from around the world is really a major, major achievement.

Nestor Buñag, Mandaluyong City: She did better than the rest, ending as 4th runner up. The judges, however, saw that the other four candidates have major, major attributes.

Stupid question

Glen Reyes, Quezon City: She was perfect until actor Baldwin gave her that stupid question, while the other finalists were given easy questions.

Best response

Abelardo Abilay, Laguna: As an English fluency trainer, I can say that her answer to the final question was one of the best I ever heard. She is a positive person so her response was naturally positive. She is a living testimony that humble beginnings lead to major, major achievements.

Different from the rest

Desuel Pardo, Mandaluyong City: She is the first Filipina contestant in the Miss Universe pageant who is not in the mold of Gloria Diaz nor Margie Moran who both came from elite families, graduated from exclusive schools and of Caucasian tinge. Though she was only a fifth placer among 83 candidates, it was surely a ‘major, major’ achievement.

More training

Johann Lucas, Quezon City: She is a smart young lady. Venus would have answered the question better had she been given the proper and sufficient training on the Q&A portion.

A better answer would’ve been…

Jose Fabello Jr., Cagayan de Oro City: If in the Q and A she replied: “If, being born out of wedlock was a mistake in my life, I could not do anything but move on. How I wish my father were here. Dad, I miss you,” it would have made a big difference.

Best bet

Rudy Tagimacruz, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon: She was our best bet and she did everything she could.

Dennis Montealto, Mandaluyong City: All the candidates were beautiful and winners in their own right but the lucky one took home the crown.

Featured Article: What can you say about the performance of our bet, Venus Raj, in the 2010 Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas? originally appeared on The Philippine Star on Aug 30 2010.

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What 'major major' lessons have they learned?

Miss Philippines Venus Raj
in National Costume

By Ricardo F. Lo
The Philippine Star

Had she given another, maybe better, answer, who knows, Maria Venus Raj might have brought home the country’s third Miss Universe crown (after Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973).

Miss U judge William Baldwin asked Venus this question during the final round when only five (including Miss Mexico, Miss Jamaica, Miss Australia and Miss Ukraine) of the 83 candidates were left competing for the 59th Miss U title: What is one big mistake that you’ve made in your life and what did you do to make it right?

It seemed to be an easy question but it was actually a tricky one.

“I must admit that the question was really tough and very personal,” said Melanie Marquez, 1979 Miss International who thanked “God the Father” when she won the title, topping her now-classic “my long-legged” answer at the earlier Bb. Pilipinas pageant when she was asked what she was proud of.

Even Diane Sawyer, one-time beauty queen, noted in her ABC show how embarrassing it would be to wash your dirty linen in public, citing as example the former US Pres. George W. Bush who was momentarily tongue-tied when asked the same question in a TV guesting.

Personally, I think Venus pulled it well when she answered, “Thank you, Sir, for that wonderful question. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Good evening, Las Vegas. You know, in all the 22 years of my existence, there’s nothing major, major, I mean problem I’ve done because I’m confident with myself and in the love of my family.”

Was it a “major major” blunder that, many people believed, cost Venus, and the country, the crown?

I think Venus could have done better and earned a collective nod if she answered this way, in all honesty: “You know, the biggest mistake I’ve done in my life was putting wrong information in my application form during the Bb. Pilipinas contest in my country, that was why I was dethroned. But then, that was an honest mistake which I promptly corrected so I was able to get a passport and they gave me back my crown. Now, I’m here on this Las Vegas stage proudly representing my country and pursuing my childhood dream of becoming Miss Universe.”

That could have been met with a deafening applause not only from Filipinos but other nationalities in the audience since, I presumed, most of those present were aware of Venus’ dethronement because it was an international news flashed in newspapers around the world and reported in TV newscast including CNN.

But I heard that Venus didn’t want to dig up that ugly past and the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) would rather that it remained in the dustbin.

Now it can be told: Last June, Madame Stella Marquez-Araneta asked me again, as in the previous years, to help train Venus and 2010 Bb. Pilipinas-World Czarina Catherine Gatbonton in the Q&A portion. My pieces of advice: Look at the interviewer straight in the eye, don’t look to your left or to your right while answering and avoid making distracting gestures. Don’t mumble “ah…hmmm” or say “what a nice question” before answering because it will make the interviewer think that you are biding your time and you are not sure what to say. Also, be honest and sincere because the judges can detect if you are not.

Be casual, be natural, be truthful. Stop as soon as you make your point.

But I agree with 1973 Miss Universe Margie Moran when she said that for Venus to have finished fourth runner-up (to Miss Mexico) was good enough. “It wasn’t easy to do that in a field of 83 beautiful contestants.”

Anyway, Funfare asked some celebrities how they would answer the same “tricky” question.

•Gloria Diaz, 1969 Miss Universe: “Now at 59? I should have had two more kids, finished college (Law), saved more, played tennis at six years old and probably became a champion at 20. I should have embraced my sister Rio more.” (Note: Gloria’s sister Rio Diaz died of cancer in 2004). “And last but not the least, I should have gone to the Quirino Grandstand and promised that guy the moon just to have him let go of his hostages.”

• Melanie Marquez, 1979 Miss International: “When I ran away from home. That’s when I realized that I needed my mother to be with me so that I would make less mistakes. Needless to say, my painful experience away from home made me realize how important it was to have my mother beside me. I thank you!”

•Ruffa Gutierrez, 1993 Miss World Second Princess: “I have made many mistakes in my youth… some big, some small, some not even worth remembering. Over time, as I matured those mistakes were corrected and became great lessons learned through my painful experiences. No regrets as those mistakes have shaped me to be the woman I am today — independent, empowered, emphatic, subservient and self-reliant.”

•Charlene Gonzales, one of Top 6 in the 1994 Miss U pageant: “I’ve learned to humbly embrace all the mistakes I’ve made in the past because they made me who I am today, although I try not to dwell on the experiences. But in doing so, I never fail to remember the lessons learned through these mistakes. Therefore, with the wisdom gained, I’m motivated to live life with an optimistic mind and heart. (P.S.: I’m so happy for Venus.).”

• Precious Lara Quigaman, 2005 Miss International: “Such a simple question, but most of the time, the simplest questions are the hardest to answer. If you ask me what major mistake I have committed in my life, I wouldn’t have a specific answer for you. It’s not something I am comfortable to share, but I can tell you that that mistake, I could not correct it because what’s been done, has been done. But it has made me smarter, stronger and the very reason why I am where I am now and why I am with the people I am with now.”

• Pilar Pilapil, 1977, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe: “The biggest mistake was never the reason for being. It was the things I should have done that I did not do.”

•Martin Nievera: “My ‘major’ was more of a ‘minor,’ I’ll tell you when I’ve made it right.”

• Mike Enriquez: “My biggest mistake in life was not being health-conscious enough. I corrected that by quitting smoking cold turkey, eating healthy and exercising regularly. Only time will tell if that will make me live longer. But it certainly makes me feel good.”

• Cesar Montano: “When I was younger, I didn’t listen 100 percent to my parents and just trusted my own understanding. I failed and realized those (pieces of) advice and perennial reminders that used to annoy me were all for my own good. I corrected my mistakes by listening closely and gave them back the love unconditionally.”

• Zsa Zsa Padilla: “First major mistake I ever made was marrying at 16. It lasted for seven years. I found another man and I have been with him for 21 years… and counting.”

Meanwhile, this clarification from my New York-based friend Boy Echavez: “Major major is not an unusual colloquial phrase used in the US or in the English-speaking countries to emphasize a statement or fact. Filipinos should be the last to find that funny.”

I will end this piece with a message to Venus: Thank you, thank you for the “major major” honor you have given our country!

Featured Article: What 'major major' lessons have they learned? originally appeared on The Philippine Star on Aug 30 2010.

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Quiambao on Raj: 'She has what it takes…'

Miriam Quiambao

The Miss Universe pre-pageant is underway and the Filipinos are truly keeping their fingers crossed that our candidate Maria Venus Raj would make the final cut. Raj may have had a shaky start at this year’s pageant—having been embroiled in a controversy regarding her citizenship when she nabbed the Binibining Pilipinas-Universe title—but reports coming from Las Vegas, Nevada, have been very positive of late.

“TV Patrol” has reported that Raj has been impressive and self-assured during the activities, thanks to the overwhelming support she has been getting from fellow Filipinos there. Elsewhere online, Binibining Pilipinas Charities Chairman, Stella Marquez Araneta, reportedly commented on Raj doing very well, describing her as a strong candidate.

As the preliminary judging begins, to narrow down the candidates to the top 15 semi-finalists, Bulletin Entertainment asks Miriam Quiambao, 1999 Miss Universe 1st Runner-up, about her own experiences at the pageant and what she thinks of Raj’s chances.

“It was my first time to be out of the country and on my own. I was blessed to have been sent and trained in Venezuela for a week where I learned to do the catwalk, physically and mentally prepare myself for the pageant. Interaction with Pinoys I met along the way was the most memorable for me because it was when I really felt their love and support,” she shares.

As such, she says, “Venus will have a great time because the US is filled with Pinoys and she will definitely feel their support.” This vote of confidence would do Raj well, Quiambao thinks, during various pre-pageant activities where she would also be judged.

Quiambao may have a lot of great memories at the pageant, but a couple stands out. “The recovery on the stage at pre-pageant was memorable as well as the actual coronation night. I'm grateful for the experience,” she says. Quiambao famously wowed the crowd with how she handled that little blunder at the pre-pageant that could have spelled disaster for her bid.

Quiambao has had one of the better finishes at the competition since Margie Moran took home the Miss Universe crown in 1973, and Raj seems to be following her lead. A simple farm girl with dreams of being a beauty queen, this back story may be a plus for her but she attributes her popularity in the official Miss Universe online poll to Filipinos all over the world. “I never realize na magiging number one ako sa ganun. Ang galing talaga ng mga Pilipino, sobra,” Raj told Bulletin Entertainment in an interview several days before she flew to the States.

Of Raj’s lead at the polls, Quaimbao says, “The internet craze was just starting during my time and we were fortunate to have had the chance to chat with fans from all over the world. I wasn't aware of such a poll, or my standing during my time. I was too caught up in the activities that it never came to me until I fell and rose onstage at pre-pageant night. It's great, though, that as technology progresses, more and more Pinoys can now express their support online. I was also able to vote for her on the Miss U website and invited my Twitter followers to do the same.”

“Many have high hopes for her. I think she has what it takes: she's tall, morena, beautiful and smart,” Quiambao adds. “Her exotic looks will definitely catch their attention… this, on top of the news about the threat to her Binibining Pilipinas crown. It's great that she was able to go anyway and represent her country. She definitely has a big chance in winning the title. If it is God's will, it will be hers.”

When asked if we have a chance to win the crown, Raj exhibited both confidence and strength of character. “We have! Yeah, we’ll win,” she declares. “Kasi lagi kong sinasabi… people believe in me… ba’t ako mag-gi-give up? Eh Sila nga hindi nag-gi-give up sa akin. Tapos ako na parang… nandyan na sila’t lahat sumusuporta, nandyan ang sambayanang Pilipino’t naniniwala sa ‘yo, ikaw hindi maniniwala sa sarili mo?”

Whereas Quiambao says the Miss Universe pageant changed her life by helping her “expand my views and broaden my horizons”—giving her the opportunity to start a showbiz career starting from co-anchoring TV shows and other hosting gigs—she also believes this experience would only bring better things for Raj.

“It will definitely open doors for her whether she brings home the crown or not. Exposure to travel and to different people will mature her in public relations and global awareness. The title will provide an avenue for her success in whatever she chooses to endeavor. Her life will now turn around because she will be recognized everywhere she goes and she will have to learn how to deal with that,” Quiambao states.

And her message to Raj is this: “I'm hoping that she will use her popularity for the common good. She is a Christian and I'm glad that she has that support to keep her grounded. My humble advice is to be grateful for everything and thank God for what he is doing in your life.”

As we keep out fingers crossed and wish Venus Raj good luck, the Filipino people nevertheless has found another symbol of hope in these uncertain times, putting her alongside President Noynoy Aquino, whom millions of Filipinos hope would finally clean up the government and make our lives a little better, and champions of Pinoy pride Manny Pacquiao and Charice Pempengco.

The 2010 Miss Universe beauty pageant happens at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 23, 2010 (airing on ABS-CBN on August 24). The celebrity panel of judges includes: illusionist Criss Angel; actor, producer and writer William Baldwin; musician Sheila E; "MSNBC Live" anchor Tamron Hall; 2010 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2009 World Figure Skating Champion Evan Lysacek; Oscar nominated actor Chazz Palminteri; singer/actress Chynna Phillips; multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winning actress Jane Seymour; and international supermodel Niki Taylor.

Featured Article: Quiambao on Raj: 'She has what it takes…' originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on Aug 20 2010.

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Venus Raj a ‘major, major’ disappointment at the Miss Universe?

Miss Philippines Venus Raj

Hooray for the Philippines! Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj, a 22-year-old Bicolana, was named fourth runner up at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant. It’s really refreshing to see our candidate land among the top five in the pageant, and many Filipinos can’t just help being all smiles about it especially after the horrific incident that happened last Monday.

However, there are also some who are not as happy with Raj’s performance, citing the reason of how she answered the final question given by Hollywood actor William Baldwin: "What is one big mistake that you made in your life, and what did you do to make it right?"

Smiling and not seemingly stunned by the question, Raj answered, "You know what, Sir, in my 22 years of existence, I can say that there's nothing major, major problem that I've done in my life because I'm very confident with my family, with the love that they are giving to me. So thank you so much that I'm here. Thank you, thank you so much!" she said.

This drew negative reactions in the Internet.

Some netizens tweeted “a major major mistake! LOL. haay naku..” and “Ohmygosh venus raj, what were you thinking?”

There is also a short article on ABC News’ website saying that it may have been the biggest mistake in Raj’s life to say at the pageant that she’s has never made a major mistake.

In an interview aired on TV Patrol Tuesday night, Raj admitted she got nervous.

Although not everybody was pleased, support and congratulatory messages for the beauty queen are still overwhelming.

Starting with another beauty queen, Miss Universe 1999 first runner up Miriam Quiambao tweeted, “Congrats Venus! We're still proud of u!”

Even Miss Universe 1973 Margie Moran has only good words for Raj’s performance last Tuesday.

“Being number 5 out of 80 is really an achievement in itself. It is a time for celebration and we need it.”

Indeed, even though the crown has remained elusive to our country, Raj is still considered a winner, in a “major, major” way.

Featured Article: Venus Raj a ‘major, major’ disappointment at the Miss Universe? originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on Aug 25 2010.

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Miss Universe 2010 Winner: Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete

Miss Universe 2010 Jimena Navarrete

After back-to-back wins by Venezuela, a new country walked away with the Miss Universe 2010 crown when Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete of Guadalajara, Mexico, clinched the title.

The 22-year-old brunette stunner edged out first runner-up 24-year-old Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps and second runner-up 19-year-old Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell.

Miss Ukraine and Miss Philippines rounded out the top five. (Miss USA Rima Fakid did not advance to the Top 15).

Navarette received her crown at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas -- during a live telecast -- from 2009 winner, fellow Latina Stefania Fernandez, while donning a blazing red asymmetrical evening gown by Sherri Hill paired with chandelier earrings and a bracelet with matching red stones, both by Diamond Nexux Labs.

"I chose a red dress because this year Mexico is celebrating 200 years of independence and this color has a lot of meaning," Navarrete explained.

Before slipping into her evening ensemble, the 2010 winner showed off her enviable figure in a purple embellished Dar Be Dar bikini.

(You'll may recall a preview of her hot bod in these racy pre-event photos rivaling the infamous lingerie images of the Miss USA contestants).

Prior to the skimpy bikini, which Dar Be Dar's designer describes as "empowering," Navarrete also wore one of the most elaborate -- and certainly the tallest -- national costumes of the night composed of a gleaming gold, peacock feather-trimmed sphere encircling her entire body that symbolized the ancient Aztec calendar.

For the nerve-racking Q&A, judged by the likes of Niki Taylor, Olympic figure skater Evan Lysacek, William Baldwin, Jane Seymour, and Criss Angel, Navarrete looked calm and collected as she answered Lysacek's question concerning the effect of unsupervised internet use on children.

Her politically correct reply, via a translator: "I do believe that the internet is an indispensable and necessary tool for the present time, and we must be very careful and watch over what our children watch and see or teenagers watch and see. And we must be sure to teach them the values that we learn as a family so that they may use the internet properly."

The memorable night also included hosts Bret Michaels and Natalie Morales, a performance by John Legend and The Roots, and choreographed dances by the 83 contestants.

Congratulations to Miss Mexico!

Featured Article: Miss Universe 2010 Winner: Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete originally appeared on Stylist on Aug 24 2010.

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83 global beauty queens seek Miss Universe title

Miss Universe 2010 Candidates

Las Vegas — A set of 83 beauty queens plan to show off swimsuits, evening gowns and quick-thinking interview skills in hopes of impressing a panel of celebrity judges and winning the 2010 Miss Universe crown.

From Albania to Zambia, contestants from six continents were expected to strut across a stage Monday night at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

The winner will replace Miss Universe 2009 Stefania Fernandez, who gave Venezuela a second consecutive win by taking the title at age 18 last year. The South American country has won six titles since the pageant started in 1952.

Fernandez says it's clear in her mind who's contending in this year's contest — but she won't give her picks until after the telecast.

The pageant hosted by rocker Bret Michaels and NBC correspondent Natalie Morales will air live on NBC and Telemundo and be distributed in some 190 countries and territories. The contest, co-owned by Donald Trump and NBC, will be judged by celebrities including 2010 Olympic gold medalist Evan Lysacek and actress Jane Seymour.

Fans of Miss Universe gave high ratings to Miss Philippines Venus Raj, Miss Bolivia Claudia Arce Lemaitre and Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson in an online vote.

If Gibson wins, it would give Venezuela an unprecedented third consecutive win.

The pageant started as a local bathing revue in Long Beach, Calif., organized by a swimwear company. It now skips over the world; it was held last year in the Bahamas and in Vietnam in 2008.

Representing the United States is Miss USA Rima Fakih.

Featured Article: 83 global beauty queens seek Miss Universe title originally appeared on The Associated Press on Aug 23 2010.

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Pinoy beauties praying for Raj's victory

Miss Philippines

Manila, Philippines – On the eve of the coronation night of Miss Universe 2010, several Filipino beauty queens said they are hopeful that Philippine bet Venus Raj will bring home the coveted crown.

Raj will compete against 82 beauties from around the world in the United States on Tuesday (Manila time).

Former beauty queens Gloria Diaz (Miss Universe 1969), Miriam Quiambao (Miss Universe 1999 first runner up), Karla Henry (Miss Earth 2008), and Sandra Seifert ( Miss Earth 2009 first runner up) said they are praying for Raj’s victory in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Raj, a 21-year-old fashion model, came from a struggling family in Bicol, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism through a scholarship grant. At an early age, she joined various local beauty pageants.

Whoever wins the crown this year shall continue what reigning Miss Universe Stefania Fernandez, who is the 6th Miss Universe title-holder from Venezuela, has started. The mission of the next Miss Universe winner includes traveling around the world to help educate students from local schools about HIV/AIDS.

The Miss Universe pageant airs on ABS-CBN for the 4th consecutive year.

The annual Miss Universe pageant will air live on ABS-CBN on August 24 (Tuesday), 9:30 a.m. with a primetime telecast the same day on Studio 23 at 7:10 p.m. and on Velvet (SkyCable ch 53) at 6:30 p.m.

Featured Article: Pinoy beauties praying for Raj's victory originally appeared on Abs-cbnnews.com on Aug 23 2010.

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Rima Fakih wants Miss Universe title for USA

Miss USA Rima Fakih

When Dearborn's Rima Fakih struts onstage tonight during the Miss Universe contest, she'll be decked out in a shiny golden outfit with wings that displays her patriotic pride -- and her idea of America.

Designed to represent the U.S. presidential seal, the flamboyant outfit for Miss USA features the wings of a bald eagle, with gold rays emanating from it and sparkly stars across the top of the bustier. It has a banner that reads: "E pluribus unum," which means "Out of many, one."

It's a motto that Fakih, 24, wants to stress, given her background as the first Arab-American and Muslim Miss USA. She came up with the idea for the costume, which was designed by Martin Izquierdo, who makes the wings for Victoria's Secret fashion shows.

After the Lebanese-born Fakih was crowned Miss USA in May, some critics said: "You're not a good representative of the USA, you don't fit the description," Fakih told the Free Press. To that, she says: "This is America. We're all one nation united, no matter what color, ethnicity, religion you are."

If Fakih wins the title, she'll be the first American to don the Miss Universe crown in 13 years. She was ranked in the top 20 contestants Sunday night on the Miss Universe Web site.

Fakih's journey is the American dream

Fakih's rise is a classic American success story, one forged out of immigrant pluck, hard work, family support and a fierce determination to win.

She has come a long way from her days growing up in Srifa, a small town in southern Lebanon, where she and her family would watch beauty pageants together.

In September, the marketing representative from Dearborn was crowned Miss Michigan. In May, she became the first Muslim and Arab-American Miss USA. Tonight, she's competing for the crown of Miss Universe.

Recalling her youth, Fakih never dreamed she would end up onstage representing America along with 82 other contestants in a competition for the most beautiful woman in the world.

"One morning I remember very well," Fakih, 24, told the Free Press of her time in Lebanon. "I woke up to the sounds of war planes, and the walls shook. I remember me and my sister and my mom were all sleeping in one bed because we were afraid that night."

Fakih recalls someone covering her with a blanket as they took shelter in a church, where candles provided their only light for 24 hours.

"I remember women crying," she said.

'Immigration and diversity'

A few years later, her family left Lebanon for the U.S., living first in New York in the early 1990s.

Her father, Hussein Fakih, opened a restaurant on the city's Upper East Side called Maryum's that served Middle Eastern food. Rima Fakih recalls how the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks cast a pall; relatives of some classmates and teachers in her high school died in the World Trade Center towers.

A fellow student at St. John's Preparatory School ribbed Fakih about being "the enemy." Her friends stood up for her, and Fakih says she didn't feel any backlash for being Arab American.

After Fakih graduated from high school, she moved with her family to Michigan and attended the University of Michigan in Dearborn, graduating with a degree in economics and business management; she also competed in some local and international pageants in Lebanon and Africa.

Tonight, Fakih will appear onstage in Las Vegas, representing the U.S. in the Miss Universe beauty pageant.

As the first Arab-American and Muslim Miss USA, Fakih has become a touchstone in the intense debate about what it means to be an American in 2010. The issues of immigration and religion, especially Islam, have come to the forefront in recent months in Arizona and with the debate over the mosque to be built near Ground Zero.

After she won the Miss USA title, Fakih drew some criticism from those who thought her Lebanese roots made her unsuitable to represent America.

"It kind of made me a little bit -- I'm not going to lie -- a little disappointed in the fact that people are misunderstanding what the United States of America really is," Fakih said.

"America is built on immigration and diversity. ... America still is the land of opportunity, and the land of freedom."

Read more: freep.com

Featured Article: Rima Fakih wants Miss Universe title for USA Read more: Rima Fakih wants Miss Universe title for USA originally appeared on Freep.com on Aug 23 2010.

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Another mishap: beauty queen dies

Bb. Pilipinas - International 2009
Melody Gersbach

2009 Miss International semifinalist Melody Gersbach, who was also the trainer of Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj for the 2010 Miss Universe beauty pageant, was killed after the vehicle she and two others were riding figured in a head-on collision in Bicol on Saturday morning.

Gersbach, 24, single, a Filipino-German beauty queen who won the Binibining Pilipinas International 2009, died on the spot along with her make-up artist Alden Orense and Santos Ramos, the driver of the Toyota Innova they were riding, said Senior Superintendent Jonathan Ablang, director of the Camarines Sur Police.

The fourth victim, Ronald Lita, was taken to the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City for treatment of serious injuries.

“It was a head-on collision, the passenger bus was reportedly travelling fast,” said Ablang in a phone interview.

The official said Gersbach and her companions were heading to Naga City to grace a gown competition for the Ms. Bicolandia beauty contest when the incident happened at around 11 a.m. along a national highway in Sitio Banasi, Barangay Pawili in Bula town.

The beauty contest is annually being held for the Peñafrancia Festival in Naga City.

The Guevarra Lines passenger bus was heading toward Legazpi City from Manila when it tried to overtake another vehicle, causing the head-on collision.

“They did not make it, three of the four people on board the Innova died as a result of the collision,” said Ablang.

Councilor Nene de Asis of Naga City, who is part of the Ms. Bicolandia executive council, was saddened by the news. “Melody had a bright future ahead of her. Mabait na bata yan. Kahit nung nanalo siya, hindi siya nakalimot.”

Despite the accident, Ablang said the activity went on in Naga City proper. He added that he is not sure if Gersbach will act as a judge for the gown competition.

“We also received reports that several of the passengers of the bus were injured,” he added.

Ablang said the driver of the passenger bus, Wilson Fontillas, yielded to the police in the nearby Pili town, also in Camarines Sur.

“But our personnel from Bula has already fetched him in Pili, he is now under the custody of the Bula Police pending the filing of the case against him,” said Ablang.

In a statement, Stella Marquez-Araneta, Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) chairperson, said: Our sincerest condolences and prayers go out to her family and friends. Her death, unfortunate and untimely, has left everyone at Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. deeply saddened. Her passing will not only leave a void in our lives, but also in the hearts of everyone who knew her. Melody’s memory will always remain deep within our hearts.’’

Gersbach, who was also 2009 Bb. Pilipinas-International, was one of the trainers of Raj, now competing in the 2010 Miss Universe beauty pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

At the send-off party for Raj at the Gateway, Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City last August 2, Gersbach was among the well-wishers of Raj, 22. Both Gersbach and Raj are Bicolanas.

Gersbach had earlier expressed confidence in Raj, saying she saw her fellow Bicolana grew up as a beauty queen.

“I saw a potential in her that will bring her something to the international pageant,’’ she said.

Gersbach had said she told Raj “to relax and enjoy the Miss Universe pageant.’’

“Pagdating mo dun, dapat feeling mo ikaw ang pinakamagandang babae sa lahat. Actually, it’s one of the secret strengths, positive thinking,’’ she told Raj.

While she did not make the final three in the 2009 Miss International pageant held in Japan, Gersbach had said she did her best. “Being a semi-finalist is a big thing for me.’’

After the Miss International contest, Gersbach focused on modeling and family restaurant business in Legazpi. She earned her degree in management at the University of Asia and the Pacific. (With a report from Amyline Ching)

Featured Article: Another mishap: beauty queen dies originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on Aug 21 2010.

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Top 15 Miss Universe candidates selected

Miss Universe 2010 Candidates

Three days before the pageant, preliminary judges selected last Thursday night the Top 15 candidates for the 2010 Miss Universe beauty contest now being held in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

But the semifinalists will be announced during the televised show on Monday night Aug. 22 (Tuesday morning Aug. 23, in the Philippines).

The seven preliminary judges ranked the 83 contestants based on evening gown, and swimsuit, during a two-hour presentation at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Reports said that Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj, 22, got the loudest cheers from the audience, who were mostly Filipinos. Also cheered were beauties from Haiti, Canada, Australia, USA, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

The last time the Philippines entered the semi-finals circle was in 1999 when Miriam Quiambao was first-runner up in the beauty pageant held in Trinidad and Tobago.

If the preliminary results will be based on the online popularity survey sponsored by the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), aside from Raj, the Top 15 will consist of Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson, Miss Bolivia Claudia Arce Lemaitre, Miss Jamaica Yendi Philips, Miss Guatemala Jessica Scheel, Miss Thailand Fonthip Watcharatrakul, Miss Indonesia Qory Sandioriva, Miss Peru Guiliana Zevallos, Miss Mexico Jimena Navarette, Miss Colombia Natalia Navarro, Miss Russia Irina Antonenko, Miss Puerto Rico Mariana Paola Vicente, Miss Brazil Deborah Lyra, Miss Trinidad and Tobago LaToya Woods, and Miss Haiti Sarodj Bertin.

But organizers said that the online popularity survey will have no bearing on the preliminaries and the finals.

Billionaire Donald J. Trump, owner of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), has vowed fair judging in the contest.

A statement issued by Paula M. Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization, read: “As disclosed at the top of each broadcast, members of the Miss Universe Organization play a role in the selection of the Top 15 semi-finalists. In the 2009 Miss Universe competition, a preliminary panel of judges selected nine of the Top 15 and members of the Miss Universe Organization, including owner Donald J. Trump, selected the remaining six;

“A separate panel of judges, introduced live at the Finals telecast, is solely responsible for the selection of the Top 10, Top 5 and the ultimate winner of the pageant. This system has been in place since 2005 and has always been fully disclosed to the contestants, their directors, the judges and the viewing audience;

“The procedure is overseen by the accounting firm of Ernst & Young and NBC Program Standards and Compliance. To in any way call into question the integrity of the judging process or suggest the pageant is somehow orchestrated or ‘rigged’ is utterly false and misleading.”

“When I bought Miss Universe 12 years ago, it was a sick puppy. Now the Miss Universe contest is seen in over 180 countries around the world and the ratings are through the roof and that’s because of the beautiful women,” said Trump. “I’m not changing a thing!”

This year’s preliminary judges are president of Farouk Systems Inc. Basim Shami, publicist and TV personality BJ Coleman, finance official Carlos Bremer, Corinne Nicolas of the Trump Model Management, talent producer Louis Burgdorf, entertainment correspondent Natalie Rotman, and Sadoux Kim, of “The Apprentice’’ franchise.

Featured Article: Top 15 Miss Universe candidates selected originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on Aug 20 2010 9:56pm.

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Miss Universe 2010: Preliminary Presentation Show Held in Las Vegas

Miss USA

Miss Universe 2010: Preliminary Competition Happens in Las Vegas – All eyes are giving much attention to the one of the world’s biggest beauty pageants, as the preliminary round or the Presentation Show of Miss Universe 2010 is set to happen today in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at exactly 7:00 pm local time.

Expect the glamour and immense feeling of judging of who will be the next Miss Universe 2010. Beauties from different countries will parade in their swimsuit and evening gown and will be judged on their intelligence in the interview competition.

It was indeed one of the most highlighted event in Miss Universe, as the 2010 Miss Universe beauty pageant preliminary competitions show held on today. The candidates will be judged in different competition that includes: swimsuit, evening gowns and interview.

Miss Japan

The celebrity jury of the judges of Miss Universe 2010 comprises the names Basim Shami; BJ Coleman; Carlos Bremer; Corinne Nicolas; Louis Burgdorf; Natalie Rotman; and Sadoux Kim.

Furthermore, John Legen and the Roots performed throughout the evening gown completion and swimsuit competition and Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis performed a medley of songs at Aria in MGM’s CityCenter.

The Miss Universe 2010 Presentation Show will determined which among the candidates will push thru with the semifinals round which will be announced at the coronation night of the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant on August 23, 2010, 9:00 pm ET, which will be held in Mandalaya Bay Resort in Las Vegas and will be lived telecast on NBC and Telemundo.

Watch out for this biggest event in the universe which will be hosted by Bret Michaels and Natalie Morales and will brought to you by Miss Universe Organization headed by Donald Trump.

Featured Article: Miss Universe 2010: Preliminary Presentation Show Held in Las Vegas originally appeared on Keen Observers on Aug 21 2010.

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Miss India’s national dress faces criticism

Miss India Ushoshi Sengupta

When she walked in that cyan blue gown which looked gaudy on the ramp, Indian fashion fraternity couldn’t digest it. Miss India Ushoshi Sengupta’s national costume at Miss Universe 2010 pageant, which is fusion attire and inspired by India’s national bird peacock, is facing severe criticism from Indian designers for not being traditional.

What’s exactly wrong with the dress? Firstly, a gown is not an Indian dress. Many opine that a saree would have been a better option, while some are saying that the gown lacks ‘structured tailoring’ and are also unappreciative of the dress’ colour. Designer Mandira Wirk tells a daily that there is no “subtle femininity” in the outfit. A blogger on a fashion blog writes that a national dress is not supposed to be “different”.

However, according to reports, Kolkata-based designers Dev R Nil, the creators of the costume, have defended their design and said that they wanted to come up with something contemporary and that the wings on the dress are like saree’s pallu.

Read More here.

Featured Article: Miss India’s national dress faces criticism originally appeared on Apunkachoice on Aug 20 2010.

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Will Venus Raj be the third Filipina Miss Universe?

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj

Her story reflects that of a fairytale handpicked from a golden bedtime collection: a journey of happiness behind struggles, contentment despite inferiority and beauty within determination and goodwill. If not for the walking flesh shown smiling on interviews, or the laughter shared with other beauties from different nations, Maria Venus Raj is a cutout of our newfound morena version of Cinderella.

From her humble beginning as a young sweetheart of Bato, Camarines Norte, and even through her chicken wing eating experience in Las Vegas, Nevada, Miss Universe-Philippines Maria Venus Raj continues to be a favorite contender for the Miss Universe 2010 pageant.

“I grew up in a small farm. My parents are farmers. I walked along the rice paddy just to go to school or somewhere else. I did that for 21 to 22 years. It was a very simple life, not very extravagant. As long as I had my education and a job, life is okay but since winning Miss Philippines and representing the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant, it’s like an entire different world. I have to be true to myself and try to fit in,” she said in an interview with the Asian Journal, recalling her life before Miss Universe.

Before stepping into the dazzling world of Miss Universe, the Bachelor in Communication graduate from Bicol University shared that she works for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as an information assistant.

“I do newspaper layouts, production and a lot of other things that you wouldn’t think a beauty queen would do. It’s an entire different world from the world I’m in now.”

The 22-year-old half-Filipino, half-Indian also had a share of the hardships every typical struggling Filipino experience. Growing up in a single-parent household of five children, she has high-respect for her mother who has been very supportive to her.

“My mom is a very strong woman. She raised us [five brother and sisters] alone. She is my mother, my father, my cousin, everything and because of her, she taught me things you will never learn in school. She taught me to respect people because you cannot expect them to respect you if you do not respect them; you have to love yourself; and to always give. These are just some of the things she taught me,” she said.

Her road to the competition proved to be a bumpy ride. It could be remembered that she was almost stripped off the title following issues on citizenship.

But despite being advised by others to “let go” of the throne, many have supported Raj in a fight she described as “more than just chasing a dream. It is about clearing my soiled reputation. It is about standing up for people who are poor and born out of wedlock. It is a fight for acceptance.” She fought for the title and soon enough her conviction and determination led to her reinstatement.

In an online forum, a fan using the name Osk Organo commented, “Venus Raj’s inspiring life story can easily lend relevance and a sense of social responsibility to the Miss Universe title. She comes from a rural and impoverished family, so are 70 percent of the world’s population! With a title in her hand and a crown on her head, the world’s rural and poor billions will listen to her truth: that poverty is never a hindrance but rather a strong springboard in soaring to greater heights in life. She will definitely be a fitting role model to the Filipino youth and to the world as well.”

Raj is now, stirring a growing number of fanatics as she remains on top spot in an online popularity poll by the Miss Universe Organization. Trailing behind are other beautiful contenders including Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson, Miss Bolivia Claudia Arce Lemaitre, and Miss Jamaica Yendi Philipps.

Flushing poised antics before international press, she also managed to win in a Chicken Wing Eating Contest, a fun game held at Diablos’ Cantina at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino.

Meanwhile, far from the glittering spotlights of Las Vegas, Nevada, Esther Bayonito, Venus’ mother, races with time as she tries to polish the requirements for a Philippine passport.

Bayonito was moved to tears after receiving the news that the Batoenos of California headed by Ric Tuyay have raised an amount to sponsor her flight to Las Vegas.

“Hindi sana ako pupunta dahil wala akong pamasahe. Wala kaming pera. Pero ngayon, ii-sponsor daw ako ng paryente ko sa Amerika, kaya inaayos ko ang dokumento ko [I don’t really intend to go because I don’t’ have money for the fare. But my relatives in the US will sponsor my travel. So I’m attending my documents now,” the mother said.

With less than two to four days to count, Bayonito appeals to the US Embassy to release her visa. But whether she is present or not in the much-awaited coronation of the pageant, Bayonito wishes only the best for her daughter.

“Mahal kita. Kaya mo ‘yan,” [I love you. You can make it,] Bayonito said.

Bayonito recalled that she was offered $60, 000 by Arab nationals to buy the then infant Venus. The offer, which she turned down, was made when she was still working in Qatar.

On the other hand, Raj’s facebook account spilled on its status, “Maria Venus Raj from the Philippines, is already listed as one of the 15 semi finalists who will compete in this year’s Miss Universe (2010). Personally handpicked by MR. Donald Trump himself and some VIPs of the said org, MUO [Miss Universe Organization], after closed door meetings with the panels after the prelims interviews.” The account said the news came from a reliable source.

Reigning Miss Universe Stefania Fernandez also revealed in an interview with the Associated Press that she has already picked her Top 5 candidates, stating that it is clear in her mind as to whom she will turn over the coveted crown. She kept mum about the names adding that she will reveal them after the coronation night.

Filipinos are anticipating for Raj’s happy ending but the last pages of the Cinderella story are yet to be flipped. Will Venus Raj be following the footsteps of Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran?

Catch the spectacular two-hour Miss Universe 2010 coronation night aired straight from Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, on Velvet via an exclusive double primetime telecasts on August 24, Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. The pageant will also be aired on ABS-CBN via satellite on August 24 (Tuesday) at 9:30 a.m. and on Studio 23.

Featured Article: Will Venus Raj be the third Filipina Miss Universe? originally appeared on Manila Times on Aug 21 2010.

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Miss Universe Betting Odds Have Miss Philippines As Controversial Favourite

Miss Philippines

Miss Philippines is the favourite for the Miss Universe pageant 2010. Venus Raj was chosen to represent the Philippines but was dethroned after controversy over her birth certificate and eligibility for Miss Universe. A facebook and online campaign resulted in her being reinstated and she will represent her country at the Miss Universe pageant at current odds of 5/1 with Boylesports.

Miss Universe 2010 will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada on the 23rd August with all the countries contestants vying to succeed Stefanie Fernandez who as Miss Venezuela was crowned Miss Universe last year.

Joint second favourites in the Miss Universe betting are from the same part of the world. Miss Haiti and Miss Mexico are both on offer at 8/1 with Boylesports. Mexico always seem to have a stunning beauty representing the country and Jimena Navarrete is another in a long line of beautiful girls from the South American country.

Miss Haiti is Sarodj Bertin and she is expected to receive a lot of support. Haiti have not competed in the Miss Universe contest for many years. The country is rebuilding itself after the devastating earthquake that took place in January and there would be no more fitting winner than Miss Haiti at 8/1 with Boylesports.

Featured Article: Miss Universe Betting Odds Have Miss Philippines As Controversial Favourite originally appeared on OLBG on 10 August 2010 at 12:46.

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2010 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe : Maria Venus Raj

Venus Raj

Ready to conquer the ‘Universe’

Sitting by the poolside in a cabana at the glamorous Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood with Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj, you can’t help but feel excited for her.

The 22-year-old half Filipino-half Qatari from Camarines Sur, Philippines is bubbly, her emotions flowing with a nervous excitement that just exudes enthusiasm.

As she is among the 83 other beautiful young women from around the world competing for the Miss Universe crown to be held at the Mandalay Bay, in Las Vegas, NV on August 23, Raj knows winning can be difficult.

It’s been more than 35 years since Margarita Moran won the Miss Universe crown representing the Philippines in 1973. In 1969, Gloria Diaz became the first Filipina to wear the crown.

Raj wants to be the third Miss Universe hailing from the Philippines.

Leading up to the competition, there’s been some controversy regarding Raj’s representation of Miss Philippines but she said it’s all been cleared up and that the adversity of having the Miss Philippines crown taken away from her only to get it back has only made her more stronger, grateful and excited for the opportunity to represent the homeland in the Miss Universe pageant.

The Asian Journal caught up with Miss Philippines last August 6 a few days after she arrived to Los Angeles. We discussed her controversial representation, upbringing and how she feels she will do in the competition.

Asian Journal (AJ): First off congratulations. You mentioned that this is your first time in the US. How excited are you just to be here?

VR (Venus Raj): I’m so excited. When Iwas still on the plane Ilooked out the window and saw this huge city. It’s like wow, amazing, just wonderful.

AJ: Not a lot of Filipinos here in the US know about you. Tell us a little about yourself.

VR: I’m 22 years old, Igraduated with a Bachelors of Communication degree from Bicol University. Iwork at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as an information assistant where Ido newspaper layouts, production and a lot of other things that you wouldn’t think a beauty queen would do. It’s an entire different world from the world I’m in now.

AJ: Has modeling been something that you’ve always done?

VR: It’s my dream. I’ve done a little but not as extensive. I grew up in the province and most of the ladies there are focused on their education, their work and their job. Iwasn’t into fashion but when Iarrived to the big city Manila, Itook the opportunity to model.

AJ: When you won the competition to represent Miss Philippines [earlier this year] for the Miss Universe pageant how excited were you?

VR: Iwas so excited. Icried and Icried a lot. This was one of the fulfillments of my dream. Ihad been dreaming about this since Iwas a child and it happened. It made me realize that everything happens in due time.

AJ: There was some controversy regarding your representation of the Miss Philippines crown. There were reports that mentioned you were born in Qatar and also had a Philippine birth certificate. The Miss Philippines crown was taken away from you but given back. Can you explain the controversy and how it affected you personally?

VR: Yes, there was some controversy about me, about my birth certificate, my citizenship but this thing that happened to me has made me realize that life is so beautiful. Iwas distracted before and a little problematic but because of what happened to me Ibecame a stronger person. I’ve never been like this before. When Iwould be in a group Iwould be so scared and shy around people but with what happened to me Irealized it’s just a rehearsal of things that will happen. So I’m just very grateful.

AJ: So you’re just going with the flow?

VR: Yeah. Now, I believe that everything that happens to you happens for a reason. Maybe this is the reason why I’m here now.

AJ: You mentioned that the controversy made you a stronger person. Explain.

VR: Definitely, it’s made me a stronger person, [and] a stronger woman fighting for what you know is right. If you know something is wrong fight [against] it. Don’t be afraid to do so.

AJ: Okay I have to ask, how did a farm girl get to where you are?

VR: Yup, Igrew up in a small farm. My parents are farmers. Iwalked along the rice paddy just to go to school or somewhere else. Idid that for 21-22 years. It was a very simple life, not very extravagant. As long as Ihad my education and a job, life is okay but since winning Miss Philippines and representing the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant, it’s like an entire different world. Ihave to be true to myself and try to fit in.

AJ: You grew up in a single-parent household, how much has your mother meant to you?

VR: My mom is a very strong woman. She raised us (five brother and sisters) alone. She is my mother, my father, my cousin, everything and because of her, she taught me things you will never learn in school. She taught me to respect people because you cannot expect them to respect you if you do not respect them; you have to love yourself; and to always give. These are just some of the things she taught me.

AJ: According to the latest online poll in the Miss Universe pageant, you are the highest rated among the other contestants. How do you feel about that?

VR: I’m very glad. It’s possible for things to happen even though you believed that it was impossible. Earlier Ibelieved that Iwas just a minor candidate not the equal of the much more beautiful and talented contestants, but when the results of the survey came out, its like wow, anything can happen.

AJ: Now that you are Miss Philippines, how has that stature affected you? How are you helping other Filipinos?

VR: When Ifirst came here Imade a promise that Iwould fight not only for myself but [also] for my country and the people of the Philippines. I’m doing this not just for me but also for all the people who supported me. A lot of people helped me to be here and this is my chance to thank them. It’s also been a long time since a Miss Philippines won the pageant – 1969, 1973 and 1999, first runner up. It’s been a long time. Ithink this is the right time to bring happiness to the Filipinos. And because of my family’s support and the Filipino people’s support it’s made me stronger. Ireally want to win it for them. I’m very glad that I’m representing the Philippines and Ihope we can bring back the crown to the Philippines.

AJ: Last question, why do you think you should be Miss Universe?

VR: There are a lot of reasons. First, you have to know yourself. You have to know what traits you have to become Ms. Universe and hopefully, the pageant [judges] sees that Ihave these traits. Iam a determined and responsible person and if Iwin that crown Iwill do everything in a responsible way to take care of that throne.

Tickets for the Miss Universe Pageant are still available online or by visiting any ticketmaster. The Miss Universe pageant will be held at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada on Monday, August 23.

Featured Article: 2010 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe : Maria Venus Raj originally appeared on Asian Journal on Aug 10 2010 21:01.

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A Tall Order for Venus

Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2010 Venus Raj

“After all that we’ve been through,” said Madame Stella Marquez-Araneta, head of the Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) which is behind the annual search for the three candidates to three major contests — Miss Universe, Miss International and Miss World — “she really should try her best to bring home the crown so we will be vindicated.”

If she does, Maria Venus Bayonito Raj, the 22-year-old half-Filipino/half-Indian 2010 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe will be the country’s third title-holder, after Gloria Diaz (1969) and Margie Moran (1973).

Madame Araneta was referring to the controversy after Venus won when discrepancies were found in her personal documents but were rendered academic when she was issued a passport, her first ever. She was dethroned and eventually reinstated.

“It’s a tall order,” admitted Venus during a one-on-one two days before she left last Aug. 4 to compete with more than 80 other beauties from around the world in the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant with grand finals set for Aug. 23 in Las Vegas, the third time for the contest to be held in that city. (In 1991, when the pageant was also held in Las Vegas, Kuh Ledesma was among the judges. The Philippine bet, the Kuh lookalike Alu Gonzalez, lost to Mexico’s Lupita Jones.)

So far, the prospects look bright. In the popularity survey of 83 candidates sponsored by the Miss Universe Organization, Venus ranks No. 1 with a 3.19 rating, followed by Miss Venezuela Marelissa Gibson (2.96), Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete (2.90), Miss Colombia Natalia Navarro (2.90), Miss Indonesia Qory Sandioriva (2.88), Miss USA Rima Fakih (2.86), Miss Brazil Debora Lyra (2.72), Miss Canada Elena Semikina (2.66), Miss Russia Irina Antonenko (2.65) and Miss Curacao Safira de Wit (2.64).

Another positive sign: The Miss U organization headed by Donald Trump has handpicked Venus as one of the six candidates invited to L.A. (before proceeding to Las Vegas) to drum up for the pageant, including Miss Mexico, Miss Haiti, Miss Australia, Miss Colombia and Miss Puerto Rico.

“The controversy made her famous around the world,” added Madame Araneta. “I could feel that. So everybody is focused on her. During the controversy, I suffered and she suffered, so I was telling her, ‘You have to win for yourself, for me and for the country.”

You are No. 1 in the Miss Universe Organization survey. Does it make you more confident or do you look at it as a challenge?

“First of all, I’m very, very happy for the survey but no, it doesn‘t make me more confident. Mas lalo lang ako natsa-challenge. I have to prove that hindi lang tayo sa Net No. 1.”

Have you seen the pictures of the other contestants in the Net?

“Yes, I have.”

So what do you think are your chances against them?

“They are all beautiful. It’s hard to tell what my chances are. I will have to see when I meet the other girls. I will have to see kung sila ay magaganda talaga in person.”

Do you think the controversy between you and the Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) will help make people out there take a second, serious look at you?

“I think so. I consider the controversy a blessing in disguise. I don’t think God would allow something like that to happen if He didn’t have a bigger plan for me. Kung wala ‘yung controversy, I don’t think ganito kaiinit ang pagtanggap sa akin ng mga tao; hindi siguro ganito katindi ang pag-abang ng tao sa Miss Universe pageant. It’s scary, kasi I feel that all eyes are on me, that people are expecting me to bring home the crown.”

In Las Vegas, the media will be asking you and the other contestants a lot of wide-ranging questions. What would you say if they ask you about honesty?

“Well, I think I have the guts to speak about honesty because of the experience that I’ve been through. Like kahit saan ka dalhin, as my mantra in life goes, ‘As long as you are honest, you can never go wrong’.”

You are one of the five contestants handpicked by Donald Trump to drum up interest for the Miss U pageant. What’s the first thing that you will tell Trump when you meet?

“Of course, I would like to thank him for choosing me as one of the six who will go on a media tour. It’s flattering that this early kahit paano ay napapansin naman tayo.”

Your pilapil training has done a lot in giving you grace and poise, in the same way that her batis walk helped Anna Bayle as an international model. Did you have additional training in deportment?

“The BPCI gave me more training, such as how to field questions during Q&A sessions. Former Bb. Pilipinas title-holders have also given me pointers based on their experience in contests abroad like Miss Universe, Miss International and Miss World. Been there, done that. Kaya naman marami silang tips na binigay sa akin — you know, how to deal with the other contestants and how to conduct myself even during unguarded moments na hindi mo alam ay ino-obserbahan ka pala ng mga judges who mingle with the girls incognito. Jennifer Barrientos, who competed in the 2008 Miss Universe pageant, briefed me on everyday things…you know, that you have to be punctual, you have to wake up early even if you go to bed late because of the many activities that you have to attend, that you should never show it even if you are tired na. But what is important is that I am spiritually ready. It helps if you keep in mind that if you have God na gagabay sa’yo, hindi ka mapapasama.”

Have you prepared for little “surprises” such as slipping onstage like what happened to Miriam Quiambao in the 1999 Miss U pageant in Trinidad-Tobago (where she placed first runner-up to Miss Botswana) or to Miss USA during the Miss U pageant in Mexico?

“Ay, oo naman. I hope it won’t happen to me pero pinaghandaan ko rin naman ‘yon.”

Didn’t you get any tips from Miriam (who got back on her feet with a regal bearing that earned her an approving applause from the audience)?

“No, I did not. Sayang nga, eh. But I’ve learned a lot from her TV interviews, especially ‘yung sinabi niyang ‘Just enjoy the show, enjoy the experience,’ and not to think of winning all the time.”

The media out there will be asking you about various topics, such as the future of the Philippines under a new president, Pres. Noynoy “P-Noy” Aquino. What will you say?

“I will tell them that I am very positive and very optimistic, that I am confident that Pres. Noynoy is leading us to a bright future.”

About cosmetic surgery which is common in your field. (In fact, according to reports that in Venezuela, which is a consistent winner in beauty contests, there are “beauty” schools purposely for doing “repairs” on aspiring beauty queens.)

“Well, I have nothing against cosmetic surgery but there should be limits. It’s a matter of choice. If a woman wants to resort to it to improve herself, why not? It’s her choice. But for me, no. Natural is still the best.”

So every part of you is original, walang “salamat po, doctor.”

“Yes, of course!”

By the way, some people are saying that you are over-dramatizing your humble beginnings, your having been born poor.

“I don’t think it’s over-dramatizing. It’s the truth.”

Going back to the controversy. What’s the best lesson that you learned from it?

“I learned more about myself, it was something na nagpalakas ng loob sa akin. It has made me stronger emotionally. It made me realize na kaya kong ipagtanggol ang sarili ko. I’m leaving the country feeling light and happy that a lot of people are behind me, rooting for me, praying for me.”

Do you have a boyfriend?

“None! I used to have one, pero sa ngayon wala.”

My next question sana is, if you were to choose between your boyfriend and the Miss Universe crown, which would you choose?

“The crown siempre! Unang-una, dream ko talaga ‘yan. I guess that if I had a boyfriend, he would support and help me realize that dream.”

If you win, and we hope you will, you will be traveling around the world to promote the Miss Universe objectives.

“I have to.”

But if, however, you lose, at sana hindi, what’s your alternative — modeling or showbiz?

“I graduated (from the Bicol University, cum laude, as a scholar of the Francis Padua Papica Foundation) with an AB Communication Arts degree, so I think TV-hosting will be fine with me. You know, I’m the type of person who takes on any challenge, kahit anong opportunity ang lumapit susubukin ko.”

(Note: The 2010 Miss Universe Pageant will be covered “live” by ABS-CBN starting at 9 a.m. on Aug. 24, Tuesday. Incidentally, you can help Venus keep her lead in the Miss U popularity survey. Here’s how: 1). Log on to www.missuniverse.com or http://www.missuniverse.com; 2). Register; 3). Miss Universe will send an activation e-mail to your e-mail address; 4). Activate your account and log-in; 5). Click Contestants and choose PHILIPPINES; 6). Rate by clicking on the five [5] stars; 7). You will receive a confirmation that your vote is successful.)

Featured Article: A Tall Order for Venus originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on August 08, 2010 12:00 AM.

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Pacman gloves in Miss ‘U’ auction

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj is all set to take part in the 2010 Miss Universe auction night in which she will present the prized boxing gloves signed by boxing champ turned Sarangani Congressman Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao.

Organizers said that the boxing gloves will come with a photo of Pacquiao signing the item, as previewed in the Miss Universe Organization’s website. During the event, more than 80 contestants will personally auction off prized items representing their countries.

Dubbed National Auction Gift, the event will benefit the Nevada Cancer Institute. It will be held at the Palm Foyer in Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Nevada on Saturday, August 14, starting at 5 p.m.

Other candidates expected to join the auction are: Miss Angola, An Angola Map; Miss Aruba, Handmade Sculpture of the Divi Divi Tree; Miss Australia, Kailis Pearl Earrings; Miss Belgium, Autographed Tennis Balls; Miss Botswana, A Rare Diamond; Miss Brazil, Brazilian Woodwork; Miss British Virgin Islands, Handmade Vase; Miss Canada, Grizzly Bear Sculpture in Star Marble Stone; Miss China, A Fortune Tripod Caldron; Miss Colombia, Pre-Colombian Era Designed Jewerly; Miss Costa Rica, Costa Rican Eagle Jewel; Miss Croatia, Croatian Silk Tie; Miss Curacao, A hand-painted Chi-Chi; Miss Cyprus, Statue of Aphrodite; Miss Czech Republic, Books Authored by the First President of the Czech Republic; Miss Denmark, Gold Necklace Featuring the National Flower of Denmark; Miss Ecuador, Incan Cultural Jewelry; Miss Germany, Engraved German Cup; Miss Great Britain, Autographed Boxing Gloves; Miss Hungary, Pabouch of Szeged; Miss India, AUM Sculpture; Miss Indonesia, Silver Replica of the Prambanan Temple; Miss Israel, A Hamsa; Miss Mexico, Designer Pineda Covalin’s Handbag and Scarf; Miss New Zealand, Morning Song Painting; Miss Nicaragua, Masks of Personages of the Comedy Bailete; Miss Norway, 19th Century Norwegian Sweater; Miss Peru, 24 Gold Karat Plated Ceremonial Knife; Miss Poland, Silver Necklace and Earrings with Amber; Miss Romania, Romanian Glassware; Miss Russia, Handpainted Matryoshka; Miss Slovenia, Rogaska Water Vessel Glass Replica; Miss Switzerland, Balmain Madrigal Chrono Lady Oval Watch; Miss US Virgin Islands, West Indies Clown; Miss USA, Diamond Nexus Earrings and Pendant; and Miss Venezuela, Lilia Lopez Designed Necklace.

Featured Article: Pacman gloves in Miss ‘U’ auction originally appeared on Manila Bulletin on Aug 10 2010 8:43pm.

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Pacquiao’s Autographed Gloves In Miss Universe Auction In Las Vegas

Miss Philippines

While it is almost certain that pound-for-pound king and “Fighter of the Decade” Manny Pacquiao’s next fight against Antonio Margarito won’t be in Las Vegas, a set of Pacquiao’s gloves will be at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino where Pacquiao usually stays when he’s got a fight in Las Vegas.

That’s because of the Miss Universe National Gift Auction for the benefit of the Nevada Cancer Institute on August 14 at which the Philippines candidate Maria Venus Raj will personally auction off the prized item from her home country just like the other 82 contestants in a show to be hosted y KSNV Channel 3 personality Alicia Jacobs and featuring current Miss Universe Stefania Fernandez.

The Miss Philippines winner will auction off the signed gloves along with a photo of the congressman representing the lone district of Sarangani signing the gloves as a form of authentication.

During her courtesy call on Pacquiao, the national sports hero told Maria Venus Raj "you must be confident. Just think you are in the Philippines. There are many of our countrymen there who will support you. I will call our friends who are there to help you."

The auction will be staged from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Palm Foyer on the 3rd Floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas with tickets priced at $100.

Featured Article: Pacquiao’s Autographed Gloves In Miss Universe Auction In Las Vegas originally appeared on Philboxing.com on Aug 11 2010.

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Pacquiao gives Venus Raj tips ahead of Miss Universe

winners

Manila, Philippines – Just like the successes of Manny Pacquiao at the Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Binibining Pilipinas-Universe Venus Raj said she wants to bring home the crown from the same venue when she competes in the Miss Universe Pageant on August 24.

Before flying to the United States, Raj paid a courtesy call on Pacquiao, the 7-division world champion and Sarangani province congressman, on Tuesday.

Raj was evidently excited to meet the “Fighter of the Decade” for the first time. She had some boxing gloves signed and even asked Pacquiao for advice on how to win in Las Vegas.

“Basta kailangan confident ka. Isipin mo lang nasa Pilipinas ka lang. Marami naman mga kababayan natin doon na susuporta sa iyo,” Pacquiao told Raj. “Tatawagan natin mga kaibigan doon para matulungan ka.”

Raj, who is set to go to US on Sunday, was very thankful for the encouragement that Pacquiao gave her.

“Ang saya-saya ko talaga… Thank you talaga,” Raj said. “Gusto ko manalo tulad ni Manny.”

No. 1 in Miss Universe poll

Raj is aware of the stiff competition in the upcoming Miss Universe Pageant, that is why she is doing everything she can to return the crown to the Philippines.

The last time a Filipino was named Miss Universe was in 1973 when Margie Moran won in Athens, Greece. In 1969, Gloria Diaz became the first Miss Philippines to win as Miss Universe in the pageant held in Florida.

Meanwhile, Raj expressed happiness over her No. 1 ranking in the online rating of fans in the Miss Universe website.

“Thank you talaga sa lahat na nagsuporta, alam ko hindi lang mga Pilipino iyon,” she said.

As of posting time, Raj is trailed by Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson at No. 2, Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete at No. 3, Miss Colombia Natalia Navarro at No. 4, Miss Indonesia Qory Sandioriva at No. 5, and Miss USA Rima Fakih at No. 6.

The 2010 Miss Universe Coronation Night will be held at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Mandalay Bay Events Center on August 23, Monday.

The pageant will be aired live on ABS-CBN Channel 2 on August 24, Tuesday.

Featured Article: Pacquiao gives Venus Raj tips ahead of Miss Universe originally appeared on Abs-cbnNEWS.com on July 28, 2010.

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Miss Universe 2010: Who is leading?

THE FAVORITES: It's the Miss Universe 2009 Finals! The Finale is coming. Who will become the next Miss Universe? Pageant Websites and experts around the globe have already put their bets. What about you? have you made your choices yet?

Hataw Beauties
hatawbeauties2007.blogspot.com
Hataw Beauties Top 15

01. Philippines
02. Mexico
03. Ireland
04. Trinidad & Tobago
05. USA
06. Albania
07. Puerto Rico
08. Venezuela
09. Russia
10. Colombia
11. Brazil
12. France
13. Haiti
14. Ukraine
15. Japan

Global Beauties
globalbeauties.com
Queen of the Desert (08/23)

01. Ireland
02. Mexico
03. Philippines
04. Russia
05. Jamaica
06. Colombia
07. USA
08. Trinidad & Tobago
09. Veneuela
10. Albania
11. New Zealand
12. Puerto Rico
13. Peru
14. Ukraine
15. Brazil
16. Japan
17. South Africa
18. Australia
19. Ghana
20. France

Joseph Vitug
globalbeauties.com
At The Homestretch

Top Five:
Colombia
Ireland
Mexico
Philippines
Trinidad & Tobago
Top Ten:
Albania
Brazil
Dominican Republic
Jamaica
U S A
Top 15:
Japan
Netherlands
South Africa
Ukraine
Venezuela

Critical Beauty
criticalbeauty.com
Critical Beauty & Hj Blog Top 20 For Miss Universe 2010

Albania
Australia
Bahamas
Brazil
Colombia
Dominican Republic
France
Haiti
Ireland
Jamaica
Japan
Mexico
New Zealand
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Russia
Trinidad & Tobago
Ukraine
Usa
Venezuela

Missosology
missosology.org
Miss Universe 2010 Hot Picks Week 12

01. Ireland
02. Russia
03. Philippines
04. Albania
05. Venezuela
06. Mexico
07. Puerto Rico
08. USA
09. Australia
10. Paraguay
11. Jamaica
12. Colombia
13. France
14. Ukraine
15. South Africa

Tom's Page of Miss Universe Mania
tpmum.com
Tom's Final Predictions For Miss Universe 2010

Winner=Russia-Irina Antonenko
1st Runner Up=Philippines-Venus Raj
2nd Runner Up=Mexico-Ximena Navarrete
3rd Runner Up=Ireland-Rozanna Purcell
4th Runner Up=Venezuela-Marelisa Gibson

FINALISTS
Canada-Elena Semikina
Puerto Rico-Mariana Vicente
Slovak Republic-Anna Amenova
Czech Republic-Jitka Valkova
USA-Rima Fakih

SEMIFINALISTS
Australia-Jesinta Campbell
South Africa-Nicole Flint
Albania-Angela Martini
Romania-Oana Paveluc
Haiti-Sarodj Bertin

Adventures of a Beauty Queen.com
adventuresofabeautyqueen.com
ABQ’s Fierce Forecast: My Top 20 for Miss Universe 2010!

01) ALBANIA, Angela Martini – Guess Lingerie Model!
02) COLOMBIA, Natalia Navarro – Student of Finance
03) CZECH REPUBLIC, Jitka Valkova – Rock Singer
04) DENMARK, Ena Sandra Causevic – From Geek To CHIC!
05) DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, Eva Arias – Sandra Bullock Look-Alike
06) FRANCE, Malika Menard – Law Student
07) GEORGIA, Nanuka Matherss – Professional Model
08) GUATEMALA, Jessica Scheel - Beauty Title Collector!
09) IRELAND, Rozanna Purcell – Winner the 2nd Time Around!
10) ISRAEL, Bat-El Jobi – Loving the FAME!
11) JAMAICA, Yendi Phillips – Miss World 2007 Record Holder!
12) MEXICO, Jimena Navarrete – Nutrition Student
13) NORWAY, Melinda Elvenes – Nordic-African Rose!
14) PHILIPPINES, Venus Raj – Dethroned then Reinstated!
15) RUSSIA, Irina Antonenko – Cat Lover!!!
16) SOUTH AFRICA, Nicole Flint – “The Young RADIO Apprentice”
17) SPAIN, Adriana Reveron – Canary Queen from Tenerife
18) THAILAND, Fonthip Watcharatrakul – Also Known As PUK LUK!
19) USA, Rima Fakih – The Arab-American Miss USA!
20) VENEZUELA, Marelisa Gibson – Architectural Wonder!

Miss Universe Ratings
missuniverse.com
Online Ratings (08/16)

01. Philippines
02. Indonesia
03. Venezuela
04. Thailand
05. Guatemala
06. Mexico
07. Jamaica
08. Colombia
09. Peru
10. Russia
11. Puerto Rico
12. Trinidad & Tobago
13. France
14. Brazil
15. Haiti
16. Dominican Republic
17. USA
18. Ireland
19. Albania
20. Spain

Betting Pro
bettingpro.com
Miss Universe 2010 Betting (08/17)

10/1 Miss Ireland – Rozanna Purcell (Cut from 16/1)
5/1 Miss Philippines - Venus Raj
8/1 Miss Colombia - Natalia Navarro
8/1 Miss Mexico - Jimena Navarrete
10/1 Miss Venezuela - Marelisa Gibson
10/1 Miss Thailand - Fonthip Watcharatrakul
10/1 Miss USA - Rima Fakih
12/1 Miss Indonesia - Qory Sandioriva
12/1 Miss France - Malika Menard
12/1 Miss Brazil - Debora Lyra
12/1 Miss Haiti - Sarodj Bertin
12/1 Miss Russia - Irina Antonenko
14/1 Miss Australia - Jesinta Campbell
16/1 Miss New Zealand - Ria van Dyke
16/1 Miss Sweden - Michaela Savic
16/1 Miss Canada - Elena Semikina
16/1 Miss Puerto Rico - Mariana Paulo Vicente
16/1 Miss Peru - Giuliana Zevallos
16/1 Miss Korea - Joori Kim
16/1 Miss Albania - Angela Martini
16/1 Miss Spain - Adriana Reveron

OLBG
online-betting-guide.co.uk
Miss Universe Odds (08/16)

Miss Philippines 6
Miss Mexico 9
Miss Haiti 9
Miss France 11
Miss Colombia 11
Miss USA 11
Miss Venezuala 13
Miss Russia 13
Miss Indonesia 15
Miss Puerto Rico 17
Miss Brazil 17
Miss Canada 17
Miss Guatemala 17
Miss Sweden 19
Miss Australia 21
Miss Ireland 21
Miss Croatia 21
Miss Jamaica 26
Miss Bahamas 29
Miss New Zealand 29

Ines Ligron
inesligron.com
Pre-pageant Favorites (07/10)

01. Jamaica
02. Japan
03. Sweden
04. Russia
05. France
06. Greece
07. Kosovo
08. Israel
09. Trinidad & Tobago
10. Puerto Rico
11. Ireland
12. Venezuela
13. South Africa
14. Dominican Republic
15. Philippines
16. Mexico
17. New Zealand
18. Ukraine
19. Belgium
20. Colombia
21. Germany
22. Kazakhstan
23. Malaysia
24. Australia
25. Panama
26. Peru

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