MISS PHILIPPINES MICHIGAN PAGEANT 2010
by  Eden Klein

For more than 25 years, FILAMCCO has sponsored the Miss Philippines‐Michigan Pageant. FILAMCCO is proud to maintain this cultural tradition as a viable form of fundraising that rewards talented and exemplary young women in the Filipino‐American community. Proceeds will be channeled to FILAMCCO’s charitable arm – the FILAMCCO Foundation (a.k.a. Philippine American Foundation). The Foundation has donated to disaster relief efforts in the Philippines (e.g. Ondoy Typhoon in 2009), the U.S. (2005 Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans ) and around the globe including the massive 2010 Haiti earthquake. Additionally, the Philippine American Community Center of MI receives much of its funding from the FILAMCCO Foundation. To learn more about the foundation, visit filamcco.org.

During the 2008 Miss Philippines‐MI pageant, participants began the journey leading to that glorious and memorable night. They began to realize that this pageant is about more than just beauty. It is about being role models that embody a winning attitude. Jacquelyn Angco Keroles remembers her experience two years ago as one of the candidates (Jacquelyn was 2^nd runner up/best gown) "The best part of the pageantwas getting to know the other girls.  It didn't feel like a competition.  I felt like we were all family.  We went through long practice from dancing, learning to walk, end even amazing photo shoots!" The reigning Miss Philippines‐MI 2008, Kimberly Wawrzyniak says her favorite part of the pageant was "…he outing with the girls & the photo shoots!!" 2008 Philanthropic recipient, Gladys Estrada feels that, "being a potential Miss Philippines will help guide them through what they do." Janelle Pangilinan (2008 runner up) further explains. "The best part of the experience was getting to know everyone involved. I also loved the outings and photo shoots, because that's not something that we get to do every day…as a participant however, it’s important to understand what goals/morals are needed as the new potential Miss Philippines‐Michigan. How one should represent themselves throughout the community and to live up to the title of Miss Philippines‐MI is equally important."

This year, the pageant will continue to be a popular source of entertainment for the community. Most of all, it promotes good will and appreciation for the Filipino culture and heritage. Like the past couple of pageants, Miss Philippines‐Michigan will showcase some of the most beautiful, talented and confident young Filipina role models. They will be supported by family, friends and the Filipino‐American community because, not only are they taking chances in life, but they are also giving back to the community – and becoming a part of something larger than themselves.

The event will honor a diverse and un‐biased panel of judges, whom shall remain unannounced until the night of the show. Contestants will be judged on beauty, poise, personality, communication skills, talents, evening gown and over‐all stage presence. Awareness of self‐advocacy and their passion for being a role model is also encouraged.

If you are interested in participating, or know of a Filipina‐American between the ages of 16 and 25, you are urged to reach out and be encouraged to look into this opportunity. While indeed a fundraiser, it is also a real pageant, and no pageant is without crowns, sashes and other surprises. Winner will receive $1000. Further recognition includes Best Talent, Best Gown, Most Photogenic, Miss Congeniality and more.

Join FILAMCCO in an effort to preserve the Filipino culture, promote healthy camaraderie among the youth, embrace intellect, talent and creativity, and most of all – help raise money to benefit the health of our community and around the globe.

If you would like to be a part of this opportunity, don't delay. Participants are being accepted until June 1st. Contact Edina Estupigan Klein at eklein515@yahoo.com.

The Miss Philippines‐MI team is excited to share this experience with the community. See past photos, join the conversation and check out the buzz at our Miss Philippines‐MI Facebook page.