5 reasons why Venus Raj makes me proud to be a Filipina

MANILA, Philippines - Venus Raj lost the crown but gained a place in the hearts of Filipinos everywhere. Here’s why:

1. Caramel skin and black hair. In the Philippines, porcelain skin and light brown locks are more popular than our natural tan and jet black hair. Venus is here to prove that our native beauty is here to stay.

2. Making waves. Just the day before the pageant, the Philippines was the center of attention for the unfortunate event in Quirino Grandstand. With all the bad publicity we’ve been getting lately, it’s refreshing to hear people talking about a Filipina in a good light.

3. She feels Filipina, through and through. Venus is partly Indian, and while some pretty girls chalk up their beauty to their foreign heritage, this girl gives major (major) credit to being Filipina.

4. Let them have chicken wings. Though she’s known for her 22-inch waistline, Ms. Raj is not one to run away from food, like beauty queens are wont to do. It’s a positive image to send out to so many teenagers starving themselves to feel pretty; her winning that contest is like her saying “Sarap kumain!”

5. She really is our home girl. A big chunk of our nation lives a life that this pageant titleholder did, and I bet you that many little girls have resurrected their faith in having their different dreams fulfilled—even if they don’t live in the city. She lived in a tiny hut in the middle of a rice field, but made it to MGM Grand. If you’re looking for someone who’s representing, this girl is.