Reigning Binibini queens in heartfelt send-off
Three Binibining Pilipinas beauties —
Mariel de Leon, Elizabeth Clenci, and Nelda Ibe — will be competing in their
respective international pageants in the coming weeks.
Fil-Aussie beauty Elizabeth Clenci will be competing in the Miss Grand International Pageant in Phu Quoc, Vietnam on October 25.
Pilot and Miss Globe Philippines winner Nelda Ibe will represent the country at the Miss Globe pageant to be held on November 3 in Tirana, Albania.
Mariel de Leon hopes to duplicate the victory of her predecessor, Kylie Versoza, at the Miss International pageant in Tokyo, Japan on November 14.
At the send-off event held October 3 at Novotel in Quezon City, the reigning beauties exchanged words of encouragement with one another on stage and within earshot of the audience.
Elizabeth addressed Mariel first, saying, “I remember the moment we first met. I’m honestly blessed that I’m able to get to know you these last few months. I honestly can say that I’ve been able to form a friendship with you that I feel will last. I’ll try not to make you cry. But yeah, I’m so honored and blessed to call you a sister and a friend. Good luck, you’re gonna be so amazing on that stage. I’m so proud of you. You are every inch an incredible woman.”
She then directed her attention to Nelda, and before she could speak, Nelda appeared to be tearyeyed. Nevertheless, Elizabeth continued and said, “I’ve seen you—honestly—grow immensely from the moment we met.You’re such an incredible woman. I’ve seen your confidence grow. Good luck, Nelda. You’re gonna be amazing. I wish I could be there to cheer for you.”
It was Nelda’s turn, and she began by praising and thanking Mariel.
“You’re the sweetest and most genuine person I’ve ever met in the pageant world. Yes, that’s true! Thank you for always being kind to us. You’re like my sister. Liz is correct. Honestly, I adore you because, growing up in showbiz, but you still manage to be so humble. I know you will rock Japan. Konichiwa! So good luck. Love you and enjoy your international pageant,” Nelda said.
Nelda’s message for Elizabeth was concise yet equally as encouraging.
“I wish you good luck and all the best in Grand International. I know you’ll make history and I wish and pray you’ll do your best, and God will help you throughout the pageant. Love you,” Nelda said.
Mariel had praises for Nelda as well. “You are one of the most statuesque, and graceful, and of course classy queens that I’ve ever met. And throughout the competition, you always made me feel that I could go up to you and talk to you, although you were tall, beautiful, you were still very kind and approachable. Thank you so much for the memories that we have made together,” she told the Miss Globe Philippines winner.
Nelda tried to hold back her tears, but she had to wipe the corners of her eyes by the time Mariel delivered her message.
Mariel then reminisced the first time she and Elizabeth met. The two ladies had shared seats on a couch, but neither made the first move to make introductions. Time, however, was all they needed.
Mariel shared, “After a few weeks into competition with Binibini, we talked more. Especially after winning, we made a really strong bond. For me it’s a strong relationship, a really strong relationship. And I’m proud to have two—more than two—a lot of sisters now. So thank you for all the memories. I’ll pray for you both.”
“Actually, I will pray for everyone that we will all take home crowns for the Philippines. Love you,” said Mariel.
Miss Supranational Philippines 2017 winner Chanel Olive Thomas was also present. She offered a boost of confidence to the other reigning queens by saying, “I’ve seen them grow so much and they’ve grown even more amazing. I can say 100 percent that they’re ready!” —