MANILA — Expressing optimism about Michelle Dee’s chances of securing the Philippines its fifth crown at Miss Universe, Gloria Diaz, the winner of Miss Universe 1969, shared her views on Michelle in a recent episode of “Gising Pilipinas” on TeleRadyo Serbisyo before the Miss Universe 2023 National Costume Show.
The Philippines’ other Miss Universe winners include Margie Moran in 1973, Pia Wurtzbach in 2015, and Catriona Gray in 2018.
R’Bonney Gabriel, the reigning Miss Universe, will crown her successor on November 18 (the 19th in the Philippines).
Olivia Culpo and Jeannie Mai Jenkins will host the 2023 Miss Universe pageant live from El Salvador on Saturday (Sunday, Nov 19 in Manila).
Acknowledging the significant changes in the pageant scene since her victory over half a century ago, Gloria began by commending Michelle’s mother, Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez, whom she considers her favorite beauty queen and “the most beautiful” winner.
However, when comparing Michelle to her mother, Gloria gave her a score of seven or eight out of ten.
Despite this, Gloria believes Michelle has a strong chance, emphasizing, “In a beauty contest, it’s not just about beauty, but also intelligence… 100% it’s luck.”
Reflecting on her own experience, Gloria admitted that she wasn’t the most beautiful delegate when she won and acknowledged the role luck played in her victory.
Having met Michelle only once, Gloria recalled being reminded of Melanie’s beauty and kindness. She stated, “[Michelle] is not my first choice. A lot depends on luck, the judges’ preferences, the situation, her gown, physical beauty, and the quality of her answers.”
When asked about the potential impact of Michelle’s popularity on the judges’ decision, Gloria noted that judges are human and might consider audience impact. She also highlighted that the Miss Universe Organization is a business that wouldn’t choose a winner who isn’t embraced by pageant fans.
Expressing her hope for the Philippines to reach the Top 5, Gloria pointed out that semifinalists often include contestants from Asia, South America, and Central America, mentioning countries like the United States and China as contenders.
Gloria noted a difference in popularity between Michelle and Melanie, stating, “Michelle is very popular. Melanie was not popular in the Philippines, then she became super famous.”
Despite her admission that she is often wrong with her opinions and predictions, Gloria’s laughter suggested the possibility of a coronation for Michelle.
(JR AMIGO/ai/mnm)
