Warm welcome, sexy swimsuits

CEBU, Philippines - The air is thick with palpable excitement, the energy so electrifying it could combust to smithereens. Truly, for the people of Cebu, January 17, 2017 was a day unlike any other — and all of this for the much awaited Miss Universe Swimsuit Presentation at JPark Island Resort and Water Park Cebu on Mactan Island.

Eighty-six confidently beautiful ladies graced the Historic Resort City in all their loveliness and were ushered in with the warmest hospitality Cebu has to offer. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach attended the event as well, together with Governor Luis Chavit Singson.

Students, teachers, even entire families lined up along the streets at the early hours of the morning to greet the Miss Universe convoy, each school honoring a country. Students clad in various national costumes, flags, and even cutout replicas of the Miss Universe crown braved the rainy weather for the slightest glimpse of the candidates before the ladies get whisked into their fast paced, glamorous lives.

Meanwhile, guests pour into the Triton Grand Ballroom at JPark Island Resort and Waterpark Cebu where the Miss Universe Swimsuit Presentation would take place. The presentation, which was set to occur initially at the resort’s waterpark, was moved indoors due to unfavorable weather conditions.

"The presentation was supposed to happen in the poolside," Sid Desuasido who emceed the event. "But because of the rainy weather, we had to move it inside."

Despite the compromises and the plan A's that turned to B's, the ladies were soon enough walking down the runway in their Yamamay swimwear, one graceful step after the other.

About 800 people turned out for the swimwear presentation, looking up at the ladies who are doing their utmost to represent their respective countries, armed with no more than their swimwear, smiles, and powerful runway walks.

Miss Universe Korea candidate Jenny Kim, seemed to be one of the crowd favorites as sporadic cheers greeted her on the runway. Andrea Tovar of Colombia garnered cheers as well.

Meanwhile, Miss Philippines Maxine Medina walked into a roomful of avid applause and cheers as she sashayed down the runway in her silver Yamamay one-piece.

For Miss Universe Vietnam, Ðang Thi Le Hang, the presentation was painless enough as she gracefully composed herself within a fraction of a second after losing her footing and almost slipping during her turn at the runway - a moment that gave onlookers a mini heart attack.

Apart from the Miss Universe delegates, several personalities were spotted during the Swimsuit Presentation, including several talents from the SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated like former Pinoy Big Brother Housemate Richard Juan, Miss Universe 2011 third runner up Shamcey Supsup, and Asia's Next Top Model Cycle 2 first runner-up Jodilly Pendre.

Government officials like Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza, Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña, and Mandaue City Mayor Luigi Quisumbing were also present.

Shawn McLain of the Miss Universe Organization expressed his gratitude towards the people behind the event.

"Seeing all the people out there on the streets, it was heartwarming," McLain said. "For us, it's a very special time to be here in Cebu and to put the Philippines in a very positive light — we're very honored to do that."

McLain also thanked Wurtzbach herself, saying that the experience has been bittersweet for all of them.

"In the end, we have to let Pia go. That part is bittersweet. She's grown so much and has been an amazing representative for spreading messages of goodwill," McLain explained. "We thank you for giving us Pia for a year and now you can have her back," he said in jest.

Indeed, the presentation was one of massive proportions, and definitely one that wouldn't happen again in the country for a long time.

JPark Island Resort and Waterpark President and Chairman Justin Uy was ecstatic as well, saying that this wouldn't have been possible if not for the efforts of the local administration and overall spirit of the Cebuano.

"This day has come full circle to us as we see our efforts become a reality," Uy imparted after thanking the different government officials in their cooperation.

On a different note, Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo took the opportunity to address the audience about Philippine tourism. She called on everyone present to do their part for the country.

"We need the support of everyone," Teo shared. "All of this for a sustainable tourism program under the new administration."

The presentation would not have ended without some words from reigning Miss Universe.

"I wouldn't make this long," Wurtzbach said. "First of all, I wish you peace. Second, I wish you prosperity, and third — mangaon na ta! (let's eat!)," inviting the guests to lunch.

The Miss Universe candidates will be part of several events throughout the day, namely a photoshoot along the resort's scenic landscapes, a store visit at Uniqlo in SM Seaside City Cebu, hand printing at the ballroom foyer, fashion gala at the water park, and the Havana DJ Party to wrap up the night before flying off to the next leg of the Miss Universe tour.

Security remained strict and interviews with delegates were prohibited.

The new Miss Universe will be crowned on January 30 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. (FREEMAN)