RIYADH, 17 November 2005 — Ten male and eight female candidates will face off tonight in the finals of the Ginoong at Binibining Pilipinas Riyadh 2005 pageant at the Philippine Embassy.
Seven students and 11 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are vying for the title in the contest organized by the Special Events Productions (SEP).
Last week, a pre-pageant was held at the embassy’s chancery. This included the talents portion, one-on-one interview and ramp modeling, which constitutes 40 percent of the pageant presentation.
At stake tonight, apart from the major titles, are special awards for Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality, Best in Talent, Best in Ethnic Attire, Mr. & Miss Beautiful Hair, Best in Casual, Tropicana and Evening Gown/Formal Wear, G & Bb. Pilipinas Riyadh Turismo 2005, G. & Bb. Pilipinas Riyadh 2005 Mindanao, G. & Bb. Pilipinas Riyadh 2005 Visayas, and G. & Bb. Pilipinas Riyadh 2005 Luzon.
Among the male candidates is Jouri Bantuas, a 20-year old who finished his high school studies in Riyadh.
“He now works with Dunkin’ Donuts saving for his college education in the Philippines,” said Ramil Rodriguez, talent manager of Bantuas.
The other male candidates are Sanny Porca, Eduardo Canendo Jr., Jhun Menano, Junifer Christ Manuel, Mar Estanislao, Gerome Ifurung, Kristoffer Edward Mendoza, Jeffrey Gulle, and Michael Gene Taneco.
Among the female candidates is Sarahlee Bangit, who works at a hospital in Riyadh.
The others are Michelle Leslie Rondilla, Bai Moudie Kudarat, Roan Marie Sunico, Liezel Ann Santiago, Amira Anna Fernandez, Sitti Monica Rosario, and Honeyleah Batuigas.
Some of the judges yesterday noted that many of the contestants showed interesting t alent.
Editha Cetro, a former police investigator in the Philippines, said that she was impressed by the answers given by most of the candidates.
“Most of the high school students were very articulate and their answers to my questions during the interview were down-to-earth,” added Alexander Asuncion, a columnist for Pinoy Xtra.
Also sitting as judges were Juliet Aquino, Alexander Asuncion, Tony Tantuan, Ranny Felix and Warren Muttalana.
“Tonight’s coronation will comprise the remaining 60 percent of the pageant presentation showcasing casual wear, “tropicana” wear and evening gown or formal wear competitions,” said Rannie Basanta, SEP’s chief executive officer.
He added that Perfect Chord, a boy band, and the Beat Static Dance Troupe will provide production numbers in tonights' finals.
