The Binibining Pilipinas 2021 Queens On Their Post-Coronation Night Thoughts And Takes On The Pandemic

Last July 11, new queens were crowned at the Binibining Pilipinas 2021 (57th Grand Coronation Night) held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This was after the coronation night was cancelled several times since April 26, 2020 due to the pandemic. 

Reigning winners are Bb. Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold from Masbate, Bb. Pilipinas Grand International 2021 Samantha Panlilio from Cavite, Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2021 Cinderella Obeñita from Cagayan de Oro - Misamis Oriental, Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2021 Maureen Montagne from Batangas, Bb. Pilipinas 2021 1st Runner-Up Gabrielle Basiano from Borongan, Eastern Samar, and Bb. Pilipinas 2021 2nd Runner-Up Meiji Cruz from Valenzuela.

Yesterday, these beautiful and smart queens graced the screens once again in a virtual press conference. The ladies were all smiles and greeted the viewers with grace and elegance. The presentation was hosted by Gines Enriquez, the head of Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc., who also announced an upcoming exclusive coronation night video where they will show never-before-seen footage.

Several topics were discussed during the online event, including their post-pageant thoughts as well as preparations for their upcoming global competitions. 

Bb. Pilipinas 2nd Runner-Up Meiji Cruz was asked how she plans to make use of her position as a beauty queen during the pandemic. She said, “I would like to utilize it by helping other people.”

Since vaccination is really a crucial factor in the fight against COVID-19, the queens were also asked to share their thoughts on the topic. 

“As a scientist, I do have to explain and tell this person that history has really shown us the efficacy of vaccination. I don’t want to force anyone to get inoculated, but I do want him to see that if you and me [sic] are vaccinated, we will protect the community,” answered Bb. Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold.

“I encourage everyone to get vaccinated,” said Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2021 Maureen Montagne. “It is the next key step in healing from the pandemic.”

“What’s available to you is the best vaccine,” Bb. Pilipinas 1st Runner-Up Gabrielle Basiano pointed out. 

The ladies were also asked what their focus will be in preparing for their upcoming competitions.

Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2021 Cinderella Obeñita shared that she wants to focus on her pasarela training and grooming, saying, “For us to really get to the Q&A part, I think we really need to slay the swimsuit and the evening gown competition.”

Speaking of Q&As, how do they cope with the pressure that comes with this most-awaited segment of the pageant? For Bb. Pilipinas Grand International 2021 Samantha Panlilio, the “most efficient way for me to stay calm is not to watch the others.” 

We’re excited to watch these queens represent the Philippines in these upcoming pageants. In the meantime, you can watch the whole presentation video below.

Lead photos by Raymond Saldana and Owen Reyes via @bbpilipinasofficial