After an epic blunder by host Steve Harvey, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of the Philippines was crowned Miss Universe yesterday. The victory for Wurtzbach ended a 42-year drought for the Philippines in the beauty pageant, after the victories of Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran.
Wurtzbach’s victory came on the heels of similar wins by Filipinas in other beauty pageants in the past two years. As goodwill representatives, beauty queens raise the global profile of their home countries, showcasing the best of the Filipino.
The victories of Filipinos in beauty pageants and professional boxing can be matched in many other areas. Such international prominence should inspire Filipinos to excel in their respective fields. The country that produced professional boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has yet to win a gold medal in the Olympic Games. The nation has yet to produce a Nobel laureate.
Filipinos have won international acclaim when immersed in a proper environment. Often, however, that nurturing environment is found overseas, whether in scientific and technical innovation or in the arts. Lea Salonga gained acclaim in London while Allan Pineda rose to global fame as The Black Eyed Peas’ apl.de.ap.
The Philippines is not lacking in brains, innovation, artistic talent and, as Pacquiao has shown, in athletic prowess. What is needed is a nurturing environment to unleash each Filipino’s full potential.
Even in beauty contests, physical appearance is not enough to win the crown. Character, brains and poise can decide a pageant where all contestants are physically attractive. Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has brought pride to her homeland. In any endeavor, Filipinos must aspire to be world class.