Cebuanas among Mutya ng Pilipinas 2009 hopefuls

CEBU, Philippines - Among the hundreds of aspirants from all over the country, four beauties from Cebu have made it to the roster of 36 official candidates in this year’s Mutya ng Pilipinas. Its grand coronation will be held tonight at the Aurora Province.

They are Former Miss Mandaue 2009 finalist Pearlyn Hortelano, Miss Cebu 2008 4th runner-up Karen Nacario, Miss Bogo 2005 Lovett Keziah Avenido, and the Fil-German, former “Europe’s Next Top Model” finalist Jacqueline Schubert.

A strong favorite, Schubert was chosen as the Aurora Star of the Night during the pre-pageant last Thursday. She officially represents Northern Germany, but is currently living in Cebu, the hometown of her mother. Schubert as well as Nacario, who represents Cebu City, and Hortelano, who represents Toledo City, are being handled by Danny Booc.

Avenido, on the other hand, decided to join the Mutya ng Pilipinas for her to discover more about the pageant world. “I’m so proud to be part of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2009 bringing the name of Daan Bantayan, Cebu. In preparation, I’m watching my diet, reading articles about Aurora Province, which is the host of the pageant, taking down the possible questions and most importantly, praying,” said Avenido.

More than just looks, the Mutya ng Pilipinas is also looking for a winner who has a sense of social responsibility who is willing to make a contribution in promoting the Philippines as a major tourism destination.

The winners of the pageant will be sent to international beauty pageants like Miss Asia Pacific International, Miss Tourism International, Tourism Queen of the Year, and Miss Intercontinental.