
It’s only been a few weeks since the Miss Universe 2022 competition on January 14th 2023 (Yup, the year is confusing!), but what a memorable moment it was for Filipinos worldwide! I couldn’t contain my excitement when R’Bonney Gabriel was crowned as the current Miss Universe. Not only is she stunning, but she is also smart and compassionate, truly embodying the qualities of a beauty queen.
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, R’Bonney grew up with three older brothers and her parents, a Filipino father and a white American mother. She went to the University of North Texas and graduated with a degree in fashion design with a minor in fibers. Talk about a multi-talented woman! R’Bonney not only slays the runway with her modeling skills, but she also puts her creativity to use as a fashion designer creating eco-friendly clothing. Plus, she even taught sewing at a non-profit. That’s the kind of beauty queen I want to see!
But let’s talk about the real reason we’re all here: her crowning as Miss Universe. R’Bonney won Miss Texas USA 2022 and Miss USA 2022, making her the first Miss USA of Filipino descent. And let me tell you, the whole Filipino community was going wild! Iba talaga ang galing ng mga Pilipina!
Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, she went on to represent the USA at Miss Universe 2022. Ultimately crowned as Miss Universe 2022. Hinding-hindi makakalimutan ang moment na ‘yun!

Of course, with such a big win, comes a big controversy. There were allegations that the competition was rigged and that R’Bonney was given an unfair advantage. But our Miss Universe handled it like a boss! She refuted these claims and stating that she would never enter any competition that she knew she would win. Wala tayong dapat ikahiya sa ganda at kakayahan ni R’Bonney!
As Filipinos around the world, we couldn’t be prouder of R’Bonney. She’s a true representation of beauty, brains, and a big heart. I hope you’re as excited as I am to see what this amazing woman will do next as Miss Universe. Mabuhay ang Miss Universe na Pilipina! Tuloy ang pagbibigay-galang sa ating mga Pilipina!
Popularity of Beauty Pageants in the Philippines
It’s no secret that beauty pageants are incredibly popular in the Philippines. The country has a rich history in the competition, with numerous Filipinas bringing home international crowns over the years. From Binibining Pilipinas to Miss World Philippines, there’s no shortage of pageants for women to showcase their beauty, intelligence, and talent. The pageants also provide opportunities for women to empower themselves, improve self-confidence, and represent their country on a global stage. It’s no wonder why Filipinas are often highly sought after in international beauty pageants, and why so many of them have brought home major titles over the years.