Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2022 Gabrielle Basiano is one of the few Binibinis who has the distinction of winning two major special awards: Best in Swimsuit and Best in Evening Gown.

Gabrielle looked back at that winning moment: "Noong una umiyak talaga ako. Super-saya ko dahil at the start of the competition, I was getting bashed because they were telling me I wasn't ready. Second time ko na raw pero hindi pa ako ready.

"The moment I was called for Best in Swimsuit. Umiiyak na talaga ako nung time na yun. And then dumagdag pa yung iyak ko noong tinawag ako for the Long Gown. Kasi yun nga the honor of winning both awards for Binibining Pilipinas, iba talaga s'ya. I'll forever cherish it talaga," said the beauty queen from Borongan, Samar as she competed with 38 other Binibinis at that time.

But Gabrielle admitted that the first part of the coronation night has always been nerve-wracking.

"At the start of the pageant, kailangan merong production number. May pressure yun kasi kailangan magaling ka sumayaw kasi unang labas mo yan. Kailangan tumatak ka sa tao. Pero sa swimsuit portion, kailangan lumabas yun fun self mo. If the judges see you na nag-e-enjoy ka, malaki ang difference nun," she said.

Gabrielle is eager to start her career in showbiz. She is enthusiastic about performing and looks forward to entering the entertainment industry. When asked about her dream co-star, she mentioned the handsome actor Piolo Pascual. Gabrielle hopes to take on 'kontrabida' (villain) roles in her upcoming projects.

The beauty queen said she will always treasure the encouraging words shared with her by King of Talk Boy Abunda. His insightful advice deeply resonated with her, serving as a guiding light in her journey to showbiz.

"May sinabi siya sa akin na sometimes, may gagawin ka pero ayaw mo siyang gawin kasi feeling mo mali s'ya. But the reason talaga is wala pang gumagawa noon kaya akala mo mali s'ya. But later you will realize na kapag may gumawa ng iba, puwede pala. So don't be afraid to do something different because baka yung different na yun, sya pa ang magpu-push sa'yo kung saan mo talaga gustong pumunta," she said.

Gabrielle now uses her crown to support meaningful and impactful causes. She was recently recognized in Thailand as one of the most inspiring beauty queens for her advocacy in mental health. This recognition stemmed from her efforts to help someone who was struggling to find the motivation to live.

The Tourism Management graduate defines beauty and what makes a person beautiful: “Beauty comes in many forms. It’s how you make others feel - kindness, warmth, and understanding through your words and actions. A person is beautiful inside and out when his/her heart is full of compassion, one whose actions uplift others, and with confidence coming from self-acceptance and genuine care for others.”

Gabrielle’s childhood dream was to be a model who walks on the runway. However, she was allowed to train through pageantry. She seized it and fell in love with it.

She is a staunch advocate of mental health, with a special focus on grief support. She explains, “This cause is deeply personal to me, as I have experienced the difficulty of healing after losing a loved one. I believe it’s crucial to provide a safe space where people feel heard and supported while gently reminding them that no matter how overwhelming the pain feels today, brighter days will eventually come.”

Gabrielle uses her role as a beauty queen to raise everyone’s awareness of the importance of mental health. “Through social media, public appearances, and community outreach, I aim to inspire others to prioritize their mental well-being and to remind them that it’s okay not to be okay. By sharing my own experiences and connecting with those facing similar challenges, I hope to provide support and show that healing is achievable.”

She is now poised to reign as this year’s president of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Las Piñas Water Lily, a non-profit organization dedicated to community development and service.

“Through this organization, I have the privilege of engaging in a lot of meaningful community work, making a positive impact while continuing to grow and learn from others.”

Gabrielle keeps herself busy these days with hosting, judging, and modeling stints. She was one of the judges of Ms. Universe Philippines – Tacloban and the Lakan and Lakambini. The Grand Coronation Night was held in Taytay, Rizal.

She considers hosting exciting because she learns new things while doing her job. Some of her previous hosting stints include the Binibining Pilipinas pre-pageant activities, the Araneta City Christmas Special, Mutya Han Samar, Mutya Ti Umingan, King of the World, and Mister International Philippines. 

As Gabrielle ushers in a new year, she looks forward to getting more exposure in hosting. With her gab gift, Gabrielle’s dream of being an excellent host will become a reality. For inquiries about Gabrielle Basiano, please get in touch with Lois Quinto at +639950272463 or email loisrquinto@gmail.com.