No ‘Q&A’ portion? No problem: ‘Mrs. Universe 2018’ in Cebu, highlights social issues through forum

Beautiful married women from around the world defied age, proving to the universe that it is not too late for them to achieve their dreams and inspire people. Last Dec. 5, 88 official Mrs. Universe 2018 candidates from different countries were presented in an event at Chateau By The Sea, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The international pageant is open to married women 25 to 55 years old. These candidates are selected not only because of their beauty and brains but also because of the significant causes they carry and represent to be able to help other people. Mrs. Universe redefines the usual pageant, as it gives a chance for married women—mothers and achievers—to display their beauty for the sake of a bigger cause.

Mrs. Universe Philippines 2017 Marilou Tolico-Villanueva, Mrs. Universe Philippines national director, said that Cebu was chosen to host the pageant not because she is a Cebuana but because she wanted Cebu to be a “show window” to the rest of the Philippines. According to her, Cebu is the perfect place, considering its most visited tourist spots and amazing beaches.

Each candidate this year was appointed by the national directors in their respective countries. Unlike the usual pageants, Mrs. Universe will not have a “Q&A portion” but rather a forum. During the forum, each candidate will present programs that will address a certain problem with a solution. Every year, the pageant covers different causes. This year’s will be about “against violence.” Mrs. Universe 2018 will have four main campaigns: anti-bullying, anti-poverty (livelihood program), gender equality and anti-exploitation/anti-human trafficking. From 88 candidates, the women will be trimmed down to the top 25, until the pageant has selected its top 5.

The candidates had their swimwear photoshoot at Chateau By The Sea. They were also treated to fun-filled activities like heritage tours at Fort San Pedro, Sto. Niño Church and Parian. The Grand Coronation night will be on Dec. 10 at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. General Admission is free but Premium and VIP tickets will be up for sale.