The beauty queen from Borongan City, Eastern Samar channels Darna’s archnemesis
Gabrielle Basiano wowed the audience during the evening gown competition of Miss Intercontinental 2022 pageant in Egypt. The Filipino beauty queen from Borongan City, Eastern Samar donned a gown designed by Ken Batino and Jevin Salaysay, inspired by the iconic Pinoy comic book villainess Valentina.
According to a social media post by Kevin, the gown explored the different side of Valentina, “as a cursed individual but with a good heart and determination.” To present it, the garb featured a gold and blue ombre tone with chains, turquoise, and silver Swarovski crystal adding drama to the whole look.
“Valentina will always be part of the Philippine culture being the most sought after antagonist in other media including film, TV, and theater,” Ken posted.
Created by Filipino comics legends Mars Ravelo and Nestor Redondo in the 1950s, Valentina first appeared in the second episode of the comic series “Darna.”
Gabrielle ended her Miss Intercontinental 2022 journey with a Top 20 finish. By the end of the night, Vietnam’s Le Nguyen Bao Ngoc was hailed as the new queen.