When she won the Binibining Pilipinas Universe title, I wasn't so sure I agreed with the judges final decision. I was pulling for Marie-Ann Umali, for that position and Bianca Manalo for the Miss World placing. However, after a tremendous improvement, and a new and competitive attitude, I see a fierce competitor in the making. Bianca Manalo wants to bring Pride back to the Philippines, and I have no doubt in my mind that she can do it. Ever since arriving in the Bahamas, she's proven to be a strong competitor and if all goes well, she will be noticed by the prelim judges, and they will give her a spot in the semis. She has the spice and the determination that Jennifer Barrientos lacked. I think that Bianca's confidence shines though and her hunger for a semi-finals spot goes a little deeper than "Pilipino" Pride. I think that there may be a little healthy sibling rivalry, between her and her older sister, Katherine Anne Manalo, who placed in the top 10 of Miss World 2002. I think that she wants to prove that if Kate can do it, so can she....and that drive will be her greatest determination in working as hard as she possibly can to secure her a spot in the semis. I think it's great, because the confidence definitely shows. So to answer my question.....Pamela Bianca Manalo is definitely a SOLID contender for the Miss Universe finals. You can bet your ass on it!!!!
On April 23rd, the country of Venezuela made history as the first country to have a back-to-back victory in the Miss Universe pageant. Outgoing Miss Universe (and Venezuelan) Dayana Sabrina Mendoza, crowned MISS VENEZUELA 2009, Stefania Fernandez as Miss Universe 2009, leaving first runner up, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC'S Ada De La Cruz as the ultimate clapper. Was I surprised? Yes! Was I happy? 100%
I have to say that the most gorgeous evening gown of Miss Universe 2009 and possibly pageant history was that of, Gona Dragusha, Miss Kosovo. She carried herself gorgeously, and she channeled the elegance of silver screen legend, Audrey Hepburn.
In the end, the right girl won. It's funny because after Stefania's well deserved victory, many people started to accuse the Miss Universe organization for fixing the pageant. As other believed that Stefania was a deserving winner, most people started to question the fairness of the top 15 selection process. Personally, I think that Stefania is gorgeous! She was my choice for the Miss Venezuela title, and although she was not my ultimate favorite for the crown, her victory was well deserved, no matter what ANYONE says!
