MANILA, Philippines - Would you change your religious beliefs to marry the person you love? Why or why not?
It was Vivica Fox who asked Shamcey Supsup (fourth-placer to Miss Angola Leila Lopes) at the 2011 Miss Universe Pageant.
Her answer will now be part of “beauty” history: “If I had to change my religious beliefs, I would not marry the person that I love because the first person that I love is God who created me. And I have my faith, my principles, and this what makes me who I am. And if that person loves me, he should love my God, too.”
Out of curiosity, I asked Filipina beauty queens how they would answer that question. Here they are (from left):
• Gloria Diaz, 1969 Miss Universe: I would marry anyone whether he is Muslim or a Buddhist. They, too, have a God with just a different name. It’s a matter of respect for each other’s beliefs, customs, family and tradition.
• Margie Moran, 1973 Miss Universe: I would marry someone whose religious belief is centered on a Supreme Being. Based on that premise, he may be of a different religion and if he loves me enough he should allow me to practice mine as much as I will be tolerant of his.
• Gemma Cruz, 1964 Miss International: As long as he loves me and respects my religious beliefs, I’m sure we can live happily ever after.
• Ruffa Gutierrez, 1993 Miss World Second Princess: Love knows no boundaries. I wouldn’t change my beliefs for the person I love but I will embrace, respect and understand his culture and religious beliefs and would expect the same treatment from my partners as well. This becomes a solid foundation for successful cross-cultural and interracial marriages. You find ways to make the union last a lifetime.
• Miriam Quiambao, 1999 Miss Universe first runner-up: I will not change my religion/beliefs to marry the person I love because it is my faith that is the foundation of my values. What I would do is to share my faith with my partner so that he, too, will come to know God whom I love. True love transcends all boundaries, cultures and religion, and The Bible says for us to love and respect one another because God is love.