Will they bring home the crowns?

MANILA, Philippines - Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach (right) and Christi Lynn ‘Ashley’ Landrito McGarry were recently feted in a joint send-off press conference by Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. chair Stella Marquez Araneta at the Pool Bar & Lounge of the newly-opened Novotel Manila in Araneta Center.

Pia hopes to become the country’s third Miss Universe (after Gloria Diaz, 1969; and Margie Moran, 1973) when she competes in the 64th Miss Universe pageant. Last year’s winner, Paulina Vega of Colombia, will crown her successor during the finals on Dec. 20 at The AXIS, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. To date, 80 delegates have confirmed their participation.

Christi, on the other hand, vies to be the country’s first-ever Miss Intercontinental. She joins more than 60 other beauties in the 44th edition of the pageant in Magdeburg, Germany, with coronation night set on Dec. 18 at the Grand Ballroom of Maritim Congress Hotel. Thailand’s Patraporn Wang is the reigning title-holder.