Miss Philippines, Carla Gay Balingit, is a woman with strong personality. "I say what I think, I am a very objective and direct woman". Indeed. When asked how she felt about winning her national pageant back in the Philippines, being an 'underdog', Ms. Gay told us: "I was never mentioned by the press or the so-called experts as a favorite, but it didn't affect me. With no pressure on my shoulders, I was able to focus on winning the pageant, and here I am. I deserved to win".

We asked her about her ethnical background, and Miss Philippines' surprising answer was: "I am proud to say that I am 100% Filipina, but you know what? Most people in my country do not appreciate that. They prefer the mestizas". About the massive support she receives from her fans in the internet, Miss Gay commented: "It's too much at times. Some of the fans hurt me with their heavy criticism. They think they know what is best for me, and not always it is the case. There are also the ones who try to 'impose' me as THE BEST. They think everyone has to think that, and it works against me. I would like people to appreciate me naturally, for who I am, rather than for what others say I am".

Miss Philippines also talked about what beauty pageants represent for her countrymen. "It's a national passion, you have no idea! It's probably like soccer in Latin America, and we, the Filipino beauty queens, feel pressured to do well".

When we complimented Carla on her performance in the fashion show, she smiled and responded: "See, there you go! That's what I like, for people to compliment me when they feel I deserve it. Thank you, I appreciated it!".

And she deserves it indeed! Miss Philippines is an impressive young woman who knows what she is doing. Whatever happens, her people can be sure that they are being highly represented by Carla Gay. (GB Photos / Ed Dominguez)