Date Posted: 08:35:22 04/18/03 Fri
Author: Gerry Diaz (mabuhaybeauties.org)

A HOT BUT WET SEND-OFF FOR CARLA BALINGIT

A Carla Gay Balingit, Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2003, was feted in a send-off press conference last April 16, 2003 at the Oasis inside the Araneta Coliseum complex. It was a hot, humid summer afternoon but it was a wet event for Carla. Many times during the short program that preceded the photo shoot by the poolside, Carla’s face was drenched with tears. Program host was Carla’s predecessor, Karen Agustin, Bb. Pilipinas Universe 2002 who also acted as one of Carla’s trainors.

Also on hand to lend moral support to her were Jerrie Javier, Bb. Pilipinas International 2002, Kristine Alzar, Miss Tourism International Ukraine Black Sea 2002, Pitoy Moreno, Stella Marquez Araneta and Bb. Pilipinas contestants Joy de los Reyes and Carolyn Ramos. Runners-up Kate Baesa and Ella Evangelista arrived late, around 1p.m. and after the photo shoot was finished.

Karen Agustin introduced Carla as the surprise winner who swept away a field of 140 aspirants and won over a heavyweight field of top favorites of both the press and pageant watchers. First to wish her luck was Jerrie Javier who has barely started her talk when Carla shed tears prompting Stella Marquez Araneta to remark that “She always cries easily.” Kristine Alzar’s turn came and Carla shed more tears.

A very nice message was imparted to Carla by Karen, “Now, you are Carla Balingit, Bb. Pilipinas Universe but remember when you go abroad, you will no longer be known as such. Instead, you will now be known as Miss Philippines and it carries with it a very big responsibility.” Carla’s face remained tear-drenched.

Karen then called on Carla’s dad Darni who delivered a short message of love and good luck for her daughter. Carla’s mom Herminia was already too emotional that she begged off from saying anything. At this point, Karen Agustin invited the press to proceed to the poolside for the traditional photo shoot. The presscon veterans immediately called out to Karen that Carla still has to deliver her short talk. Realizing her act of omission, Karen quickly corrected herself and gave the microphone to Carla.