In 2012, several Pinoys reminded the whole world just how beautiful, talented and special we are. From athletes and singers to beauty titlists, here are those who brought pride to the country in 2012.
Janine Tugonon
Although she had to settle for runner-up in this year’s Miss Universe pageant, our delegate showed the whole world how gorgeous, confident, eloquent and graceful the Filipina is. And how well she could carry such an ugly evening gown, too.
June Macasaet
The 29-year old commercial and ramp model, who lost in the recent Century Tuna Superbods competition, did every Pinoy proud when he defeated 52 other contestants at the Manhunt International pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. He is actually the first-ever Pinoy to win the title.
Kevin Balot
What makes the transgender beauty’s win at the 8th Miss International Queen beauty pageant sweeter is the fact that it was held in Thailand, which is known for its stunning ladyboys.
Andrew Wolff
The handsome rugby player was handpicked by the local organizers of the pageant to represent the country (no local competition was held) and it looks like they did a good job because Andrew ended up as the first runner-up at the Mister World pageant held in Kent, England, last Nov. 25.
Queenierich Rehman
Although she made it to just the Top 15, our delegate to the Miss World pageant in Ordos, China, last Aug. 18 sure had everyone clicking the YouTube video of her performance in the talent competition, where she beat boxed, much to the surprise and delight of everyone.
Jessica Sanchez
The part-Pinay wowed America and the rest of the world (including the Philippines, of course) every time she sang in the talent show “American Idol.” Too bad she ended up just in second place, losing to Phillip Phillips. That doesn’t change the fact how she’s shown everyone how extremely talented she is.
Zendee Rose Tenerefe
From not making it to a local talent show and sleeping in the fire station to guesting on several shows, including “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” Random Girl’s life sure has changed (and is not-so-random anymore), thanks to that viral YouTube video of her singing “And I’m Telling You” in a mall.
Nonito Donaire Jr.
The boxer’s victory was extra special because it came right after fellow boxer Manny Pacquiao’s shocking loss to Juan Manuel Marquez.
‘Eat Bulaga! Indonesia’
Pinoys are used to franchising shows like “The X Factor” and “American Idol” so it was definitely unexpected—but in a good way, of course—when the country’s longest-running noontime show, “Eat Bulaga!,” got an Indonesian version called “Eat Bulaga! Indonesia.” About time! This should be just the start. Mark Sablan, Contributor
