PAGEANT | Top 10 Evening Gowns of Philippines in Miss Universe 2010-2022

As Miss Universe season returns, it's the perfect time to delve into our favorite aspect of the competition – and no, it's not the question and answer segment or the swimsuit portion; it's the evening gowns. It's no secret that this blog is an enthusiastic supporter of Miss Universe, primarily because of the stunning fashion displayed on the runway. The evening gowns truly have the power to elevate or hinder the chances of Philippine delegates. Of course, one could argue that the preliminary rounds and the Q&A session are the real deal-breakers, but as an audience who can only view what's broadcast on television, we can't help but marvel at the exquisite designs.

In this list, we are ranking the top 10 evening gowns worn by Philippine representatives from 2010 (Venus Raj) to 2022 (Celeste Cortesi). While there were certainly remarkable gowns before 2010, such as Miriam Quiambao's iconic dress, the revival of the Philippines' Miss Universe success began in 2010. As a result, we'll focus on the 2010-2022 era.

PAGEANT | Miss Philippines National Costume in Miss Universe 2020 (69th Edition)

Pretty, But Forgettable

Much has been said about the National Costume of Miss Philippines, Rabiya Mateo. even prompting Rabiya to go live in one of her social media accounts to apologize for supposedly not living up to fans' expectations on her costume. While previous Philippine title holders like Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray defended Rabiya from the negative feedbacks.

Verdict: It has been an anonymous observation that the national costume, albeit a huge improvement from previous designs spanning 2010 (Barazza era) down to present - still lacked character and X-factor. In other words, the costume is a Victoria Secret material at best but remains forgettable. Years from now, pageant fans will look back and ask, what did Rabiya wear again for National Costume?

It's not the head piece. It's the costume itself. You look at the lackluster feathers (the most common material in the history of pageants) and you easily get tired. Before you know it, you start asking - that's it? As if we are waiting for some grand gimmick to suddenly appear from somewhere.

PAGEANT | Miss Universe, The 69th Edition - Florida, USA

 

Miss Universe 69th Edition

The Miss Universe 69th edition is happening this May 16th (May 17th in the Philippines) and early as now, pageant fans are now starting to predict the results of the competition. Representing the Philippines is Rabiya Mateo, a half Pinay/half Indian from Iloilo. So far, she has been showing lots of potential and she is working hard to win the crown. If we are being honest, this year remain to be an undecided edition as many candidates seem to be strong contenders for the crown.

LIFESTYLE | Venus Raj in a "major-major" way

Venus Raj in a "major-major" way

If only she had maintained her composure and cool, she could have nailed this one. She was this close!

I'm not really sure if I'm going to be happy about the Philippines winning 4th place in the recently concluded Miss Universe 2010 (well to begin with I never expected the Philippines to win anyway except perhaps for the Miss Photogenic award which was won this year by Miss Thailand). Yes it's true that the Philippines (Venus Raj, 22) proved her beauty to the world but the thought of almost being crowned just a few intellectual answers away is really killing me.

Who's she kidding when she answered William Baldwin's question, "What is your major mistake and how did you correct it?" Her answer:

You know what sir, in my 22 years of existence I can say that there is nothing major-major problem that I have done in my life because I am very confident with my family, with the love that they are giving to me so thank you so much that I am here. Thank you thank you so much!

Gosh, the answer didn't even hit the question. So during the coronation, i just hoped that the judges would have considered the tragic hostage taking that took place the night before and somehow give the Philippines a chance to be cast in a better light.

Make no mistake about it. I am proud of what the Philippines has achieved in this pageant. I'm just bitter at the thought that we could have done better. In any case, I salute Venus. You are such a blessing to this country.