IN THE MIX BY MIC DIAZ
The Alex Theatre in Glendale saw an exhilarating crowning of this year’s title holders for the 13th year last Sunday, July 28. Rowland Heights native Chloe Jane Reyes was crowned Miss Philippines USA 2024 along with Santa Monica resident Portia Rossi as Miss Young Philippines USA 2024, and Temecula denizen Zachery Tolentino as the first ever Mister Philippines USA 2024.
The longest-running Filipino-American beauty pageant in the U.S. was hosted by ABC7 Eyewitness News broadcaster Tony Cabrera and KTLA news anchor Cher Calvin. This year’s distinguished judges included Filipino actress, model, TV host and beauty pageant titleholder Ruffa Gutierrez and Filipino-American actress, TV host and former MTV Asia VJ Donita Rose.
This year’s Miss Philippines USA current title holders include Jianni Miller as Miss Tourism, Mazel Sia as 1sts Runner Up, Keilin Tankiamco as 2nd Runner Up and Keziah Atendido.
Miss Young Philippines USA Court new title holders include Grace Kelly Hernandez as Miss Young Tourism, Cristen Subia as Miss Young Grand Ambassador, Chloe Smith as Miss Young 1st Runner Up, Giselle Olmos as Miss Young 2nd Runner Up and Ella Kedilerli as Miss Young 3rd Runner Up.
The first ever Mister Philippines other title holders consist of Kyle Tiglao as Mister Tourism and Mister People’s Choice, Dorian Mendoza as Mister Ambassador, Jey Bersales as 1st Runner Up and Ralph Corcino as 2nd Runner Up.
According to pageant organizer and producer Lou Razon, the Miss Philippines USA organization discovers and develops young women and now men to be ambassadors of goodwill who are confident, intelligent, compassionate and who are driven towards living a purposeful life.
Monet Lu, the chairman of the Board of Judges for Mister Philippines USA, affirms that some of the organization’s missions are to promote inclusivity, the diverse cultures of the Philippines and the rich culture and heritage of Filipino-Americans. The inclusion of a search for men who are not only good-looking, but also talented, motivated and driven will elevate the Filipino-American pageant industry.
This year’s candidates will promote the positive image of FIlipino-Americans and they will serve as role models for young Filipino-Americans and the whole community as well.
4th Impact, a singing group that competed in the British singing contest The X Factor, Junior New System, a dance group known for appearing on America’s Got Talent and international R&B singer Honore completed the roster of entertainers.
Photo by Andy Z. Edralin
Photo by Romelle Gavin
The 13th Annual Miss Philippines USA beauty pageant was supported by several generous sponsors including Aberdeen School of Nursing, AMP Staffing, BayaniPay, Beverly Hills Framing, Bontika, Carlotta Collections, Codemasters, City of Carson Councilwoman Arleen Bocatija Rojas, Dahl’s Wellness, Earthbaby, Estilo Filipino, Kubo Restaurant, La Bella Pinseria Romana, Lapid Foods, Inc., Lou Razon Couture, Lucky Brides, Monet Salon, Norie Rosen Realty, Oasis Wellness and Spa, Riman, Rising Stars Performing Arts Center, Ritello, ROKU, Sikat Solar, Smile Experts Dental, Tang and Java, To Soma Mou, UPBA and VIP Aesthetics.
A victory and appreciation party for all candidates, sponsors and supporters was held at Titos Pizza Bar and Grill at West Covina last Sunday, August 4.
Photos by Gerry Edra, Romelle Gavin and Andy Edralin