Miss International 2016

Will Kylie bring home the country’s 6^th crown?

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte

Binibining Pilipinas-International 2016 Kylie Verzosa will fly to Japan on Oct. 7 to compete in the 56^th edition of the annual search.

The Miss International is a Tokyo-based international beauty pageant organized by the International Culture Association. Also known as “Miss International Beauty,” the pageant was first held in 1960; with Stella Marquez of Colombia winning the title.

“What makes the Miss International different is how judges rate the girls every day. Japan wants somebody subtle yet elegant. That’s why the judges watch the girls closely even, and especially, when they are off-stage. As a Filipina beauty queen and woman of substance, I’ll do my best for our country; preparing myself in all aspects, may it be mentally, physically, and spiritually,” stated Kylie, during a mid-afternoon send-off at the Monet Ballroom of the Novotel in Cubao.

The pageant opens doors for women to serve as “Ambassadors of Peace and Beauty” by demonstrating tenderness, benevolence, friendship, intelligence, the ability to take action, and, most importantly, great international sensibility. Its ultimate goal is to promote world peace, goodwill, and understanding.

“You’re a strong, confident woman and the entire country will be praying for you. Thank you for defending me from people who bring me down,” cheered Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2016 Maxine Medina in her message.

It was in 1968 when the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) acquired the local franchise for the pageant. To date, the Philippines has already won five crowns: Gemma Cruz (1965), Aurora McKenney Pijuan (1970), Mimilanie Laurel Marquez (1979), Precious Lara Quigaman (2005), and Bea Rose Santiago (2013).

Evelyn Santos Camus and Yolanda Adriatico Dominguez both won 2^nd Runner-up in 1971 and 1972, respectively.

“I know how passionate you are. You can bring home the next Miss International crown. We are all proud of you!” lilted Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2016 Nicole Manalo.

Kylie will be wearing a national costume and evening gown designed by Francis Libiran. The 56^th Miss International finals will unfold in Tokyo, Japan on Oct. 27.