Did you know that Miss Singapore's #StopAsianHate costume was made by a Filipino designer?
What used to be a parade about cultural diversity, the national costume presentation of this year's Miss Universe became a platform for political statements for some candidates. And Filipino netizens, pageant fans or not, can't help but salute the ladies that wore their causes on the stage of the prestigious pageant.
Here are some of the standouts:
Miss Singapore
Singaporean beauty queen Bernadette Belle Ong stood for all Asians around the world as she campaigns to #StopAsianHate with her costume. Made by Filipino designer Arwin Meriales, the costume took only two days to be finished. Much like a protest banner, the "Stop Asian Hate" statement on her cape was handpainted by artist Paulo Espinosa.
"Given the slim timeframe we had to get it sent from the Philippines to Singapore before I flew out to the US," Miss Singapore posted. "I’d say this is a huge win for everyone! We got our message across loud and clear! Thanks for roaring back at us with love and praise."
"Kudos to Arwin for making this along with two other dresses in preparation for my time in Miss Universe," Belle continued. "He was actually juggling his examinations at that time so I really appreciate his undeniably impressive work ethic!"
Miss Myanmar
What Miss Myanmar Thuzar Wint Lwin wore on the stage is not her original costume according to the show's presenter. But it still reflected her country's culture as it is the traditional garb Chin women wore during ceremonies such as the Khwang Cawi festival. Apart from the beautiful weaving and the antique jewelry, what made her time on the stage even more powerful is her "Pray for Myanmar" banner.
Miss Uruguay
It's all about diversity and equality for Miss Uruguay Lola De Los Santos costume. Dubbed "I am," the garb honored the LGBTQIA+ community with its rainbow-colored train that screams, "No more hate, violence, rejection, and discrimination."
How about you? Which costume is your favorite?