MANILA, Philippines — Arnold Vegafria and his Miss World-Philippines Team will have a few hectic weeks ahead of them after choosing 40 lovely Filipinas as official candidates for next month’s finals. Aside from the grueling schedule of the national pageant, they are hosting reigning Miss World Vanessa Ponce de Leon (photo) of Mexico and more than 70 hunks from all over the world who are vying for the Mister World 2019 title on Aug. 23 at the Araneta Coliseum.
A welcome reception party for Vanessa and the early arrivals was held at the Novotel Hotel last Aug. 6. Vanessa expressed her excitement to be in Manila and hoped to have fun time with her Pinay sister Katarina Rodriguez (Miss World-Philippines 2018) and Megan Young (Miss World 2013).
“Despite the hectic and fast-paced schedule, I hope to enjoy the beaches here,” she said.
The men mentioned that they would love to go to the world famous sights during their stay in the country. The Philippines is represented by UP alumnus JB Saliba who promised to show his co-delegates our renowned Filipino hospitality.