A FORENSIC scientist who believes that freedom of speech is a basic human right was crowned Binibining Pilipinas International at Smart Araneta Coliseum at Araneta City in Quezon City.
Filipino-Australian Hannah Arnold from Masbate received her crown from her predecessor, lawyer Bea Patricia Magtanong, at the culmination of the three-hour coronation ceremonies, which saw 34 ladies fighting for four crowns.
Also proclaimed winners were Samantha Panlilio, Cinderella Faye Obenita and Maureen Montagne.
It was a long and arduous journey for the ladies due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Organisers called for applicants to its 2020 edition before the health crisis hit the country, and already selected 40 delegates to take part in the competition.
The contest was postponed as the country remained under various levels of quarantine, and resumed the competition in the first quarter of 2021.
By that time, some candidates had exceeded the age limit, while others had to withdraw to attend to more pressing personal concerns, so the roster came down to 34.
For Arnold, the quest for her cherished crown was long, in terms of both distance and time. She left her family and a forensic job in Australia to tread the beauty pageant path.
When broadcaster Pinky Webb asked if she believes genuine freedom of speech exists in the Philippines, Arnold said, “Freedom of speech is a basic human right that we all must remember and it is important for a democracy.
“And with the upcoming elections, we definitely need free speech,” she said.
Another queen who impressed judges with her eloquence was Obenita, who advanced to the semifinals by securing the highest number of votes on the pageant’s mobile app for the “People’s Choice” award. — Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
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