At the Manila International Fair in 1953, lovely ladies from all over the country vied for the title of Miss Philippines, won by Christina Galang. Crowned Miss Mindanao was a stunning American mestiza, Gilda Walstrom, who came from one of the wealthiest families in Davao, with vast land holdings and business enterprises.
Miss Walstrom on the cover of El Debate
In the same year, Miss Walstrom was proclaimed La Reina de la Caridad (Queen of Charity) at the Baile de las Diademas (Hall of Diamonds) held at The Manila Hotel. She came out on the cover of the Spanish publication El Debate.
Although based in Davao, Miss Walstrom came to Manila every so often to attend high-society events and business meetings.
...in Maria Clara by Ramon Valera
In 1956, Woman and the Home magazine (of Manila Chronicle) noted that Miss Walstrom stood out in a Manila fashion show where she wore two Ramon Valera gowns: Maria Clara and modern terno.
This columnist remembers that in the mid-’60s, Miss Walstrom dropped by the office of my mother (Soledad Lirio Dolor). While simply dressed, she remained beautiful.
...in terno, also by Valera.
Wonder where Gilda Walstrom is now. Perhaps Remember When? readers have an idea.— RKC