A Santacruzan with a touch of Binibini

MANILA, Philippines - Once again, Bb. Pilipinas Charities held its annual Grand Santacruzan recently at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City. The slight drizzle that followed the Mass did not stop the procession which proceeded with the sagalas protected from the rain with umbrellas.

Past and present Bb Pilipinas winners graced the occasion with 1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz as Reyna Emperatriz and 2005 Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman as Reyna Elena 1. At one point of the procession, the people lining up the street broke into applause and it was very heartwarming to see they were applauding Gloria Diaz, really nice to realize that our fellow Filipinos still have the admiration, respect and affection for Gloria.

They were preceded by the reigning Bb. Pilipinas winners — Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Janine Tugonon, Bb. Pilipinas-International Nicole Schmitz, Bb. Pilipinas-Tourism Katrina Dimaranan, first runner-up Elaine Kaye Moll and second runner-up Annalie Forbes. 2012 Bb Pilipinas semifinalists and contestants were also featured as sagalas — Gina Howell, Jaine Hidalgo, Roxane Jesalva, Liezl Alcantara, Patricia Ejercitado, Karen Galmann, Allen Ariosa and Chloe Zanardi.

Past Bb. Pilipinas winners added glitter to the event. From 2011, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Shamcey Supsup, Bb. Pilipinas-International Dianne Necio and Bb. Pilipinas-Tourism Isabella Manjon. From 2010, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Venus Raj and Bb. Pilipinas-World Czarina Gatbonton. From 2008, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Jennifer Barrientos, Bb. Pilipinas-International Patricia Fernandez, Bb. Pilipinas-World Danielle Castano and resigned Bb. Pilipinas-World Janina San Miguel.