MANILA, Philippines — Beauty pageant Binibining Pilipinas 2018 has announced its top 10 bets for the special award Best in National Costume on Thursday, International Women’s Day.
In a video posted on the contest’s official Facebook page, it can be seen that most candidates preferred wearing Mindanao-inspired national costumes to mark the first anniversary of the Battle of Marawi in May.
According to the candidates, the Mindanao-inspired costumes also aim to clear stereotypes against Muslim women and instead, portray them as powerful and strong.
While celebrities like Miss World top 5 finalist Catriona Gray and volleyball star Michele Gumabao entered the top 10, fresh faces like Rosantonette Mendoza and Jehza Mae Huelars also stood out.
On March 10, the beauties are scheduled for a parade at the Araneta Center.
Full list: Top 10 Best in National Costume
Binibini no. 33 Stephanie Joy Abellanida in Archie Castillo creation
Binibini no. 4 Ana Patricia Asturias in Dave Ocampo creation
Binibini no. 18 Rosantonette Mendoza in Rau Jan Uson-Ablaza creation
Binibini no. 19 Michele Theresa Gumabao in Nat Manilag creation
Binibini no. 35 Sandra Lemonon in Edwin Uy creation
Binibini no. 11 Maria Andrea Abesamis in Chico Estiva creation
Binibini no. 31 Jehza Mae Huelar in Neil Patrick Policarpio creation
Binibini no. 20 Catriona Elisa Gray in Jason Demavivas creation
Binibini no. 30 Sarah Margarette Joson in Jay-r Garcia Flores creation
Binibini no. 29 Samantha Kaye Avestruz in Mick Guarino creation