Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Beatrice Luigi Gomez left the country last Saturday for Eilat, Israel to join other delegates from across the world to compete in the 70th edition of the Miss Universe Pageant. The 26-year-old Cebuana flew business class to the pageant venue together with Miss Universe Philippines Creative Director Jonas Gaffud and Communications Director Voltaire Tayag via Turkish Airlines.
Looking chic and sassy in a Francis Libiran ensemble, Bea looked calm, composed and ready to capture the country’s fifth Miss Universe crown. In a social media post she, herself, published, the beauty queen confidently declared: “We’re finally ready for the universe!”
Before she even starts her Miss Universe journey, Thrillmaker decided to gather some encouraging messages for the queen who had to face bashers and critics after her crowning as Philippine representative because of her “unexpected” win over more popular and hyped contenders. Will she play the same underdog and dark horse cards in her quest for the country’s fifth win in the world’s most prestigious pageant? We’ll have to wait and see.
KATRINA DIMARANAN, Miss Universe Philippines-Tourism 2021. “You can do this. Don’t forget about us. If you feel sad, just know we’re here. Your whole in time in Israel, just think that the whole Philippines has your back talaga. You are our queen.”
CATHERINE UNTALAN-VITAL, Miss Earth-Water 2006/PTV News Anchor. “Your representation at Miss Universe is a much-needed respite in this seemingly endless battle with COVID19. For a moment, our nation will unite to cheer for you as if we had no differences in opinions and problems to deal with. As you proudly shout “Philippines!”, remember that you are standing not just for every Filipino, but for every individual who was discriminated against for being true to his or her core. God bless your Miss Universe journey, Bea! Padayon!”
DERICK ALLEN LAUCHENGCO, Misters of Filipinas Winner 2021. “The mere fact that you are carrying the Philippine sash with you, means the whole country is supporting you. I am one behind you, and I am looking forward to you coming home with our 5th Miss Universe crown. All the best Bea, seize every moment and enjoy your journey. Ngayon pa lang proud na proud na kami sayo.”
MEIJI CRUZ, Binibining Pilipinas Second Runner-Up 2021. “I already liked Beatriz even she was a still a candidate in Miss Universe Philippines. She has a quiet yet strong aura that spoke during the pre-pageant and coronation night itself. For me, she broke the stereotype of a Beauty Queen - out and proud of her sexuality and as an inked Queen. She represented sectors that are oftentimes discriminated against in our society. Having her, as our MU delegate transcends beyond being a Beauty Queen but a representation of change and acceptance.”
STEFFI ABERASTURI, Miss Universe Philippines, Second Runner-Up. “Anyone will be very proud of you, where you are right now. A lot of girls are dying to be in your position. Representing our country, the Philippines, is something big. It is something that you should enjoy and have fun. Don’t forget to be who you are. Just be happy and go there. Make the Cebuanos and whole Philippines proud!”
THIS JUST IN: The Israeli government has just come out with a statement that bans the entry of all foreigners to the country over the threat of a possible spread of the highly-transmissible Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus. What impact will this have on Bea’s Miss Universe campaign when she finally lands in Israel? Praying for her and her team’s safety.