Bahamas – The cheering squad of Miss Philippines Bianca Manalo is complete.
Her parents, Emily and Rod, arrived here, together with her beauty queen aunt, Nini Ramos Licaros, to show their support to Bianca who is vying for the Miss Universe 2009 crown.
Bianca's two sisters, Kyle and Kate, also flew to the Bahamas with their husbands. They had a tough time getting a visa but they said there was no way they would miss this year’s Miss Universe pageant.
Emily and Rod said they are both excited and nervous as they asked for the support of the Filipinos and their prayers for their daughter’s success.
Bianca's father said he is thrilled because Bianca is his second daughter to make it to a prestigious beauty pageant. Kate was a finalist in the Miss World 2002.
Just like Kate, he said he believes Bianca will represent the Philippines well.
Nini, who was a Miss International semi-finalist in 1968, on the other hand, said she is impressed with Bianca's transformation since winning the Binibining Pilipinas title.
She predicted that Bianca will be strong in the swimsuit and question-and-answer portion.
Bianca was very happy to be reunited with her No. 1 support group and inspiration - her family.
They had a little bit of time to chat. Her family gave her a kiss and hug for luck. Bianca again asked for the prayers and support of her countrymen.
On the eve of the coronation night, Bianca and all the candidates spent almost the entire day rehearsing for the grand show that will be viewed by an estimated one billion audience all around the world.
Lights and cameras are all in place at the Imperial Ballroom at the Atlantis Hotel, the venue for the pageant.
It’s been 36 years since the Philippines won the Miss Universe courtesy of Margie Moran in 1973. Bianca hopes to break the long drought and bring back the prestigious crown to the Philippines.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertain...rse-main-event
Originally Posted by IainBusby
