Hurrah for Rachel Peters

I want to say to Rachel Peters, our country’s candidate at the recent Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas: “Congratulations, sister!” To be part of that elite group of top 10 candidates in the most prestigious pageant in the world — or the universe, rather — is a tremendous achievement.

Like most Filipinos, my heart sank when Rachel did not make it to the top five. I was completely awestruck by her beauty and how she elegantly glided onstage in her shining, shimmering, splendid silver gown that really showed off her va-va-voom figure.

In the aftermath of Miss Universe, there continue to be a lot of “what ifs” and “shoulda-coulda-wouldas” from overzealous Filipino pageant fans who are convinced that Rachel would have easily breezed through the top five and top three interview portions. I’ve managed to veer away from such pointless and frustrating suppositions, reminding myself that the Philippines, now an acknowledged “powerhouse” in international beauty contests, cannot win every year. The title was just meant for
another girl this time around. Destiny, as they say it.

But no doubt, Rachel poured so much blood, sweat and tears to be in top form, and I am proud of her for representing us Filipinos to the best of her abilities. She may not have won the Miss U crown, but she has her whole future ahead of her, and there are so many other arenas in life which she can conquer. Much as the Miss Universe pageant is an experience of a lifetime (even if one does not win), a candidate should not be stuck in identifying herself with it for there is so much more that life has to offer. Spread your wings and fly (butterfly!), develop your fullest potential, and — yes! — try to change the world for the better. Since many Filipinos look up to beauty queens, be a positive influence to others. Cliché, perhaps, but it packs a lot of truth.

I also would like to congratulate Rodgil Flores and the rest of his team for their excellent mentoring of Rachel. I commend Flores for maintaining a low profile and allowing his ward to shine and enjoy the limelight, resisting the urge to steal her thunder. He has always been humble and unassuming despite the significant role that he’s played in prepping Rachel for Miss U. I hope all beauty queen mentors follow his example.

After all that’s been said and done, another girl won. But Miss Philippines Rachel Peters, in the hearts of many Filipinos, you are a winner! Thank you, girl!

KRISTOFFER “KISSES” POBLACION, [email protected]