Carla is no stranger to triumph. Before Miss Philippines, she have already won in 7 pageants which considered her training grounds, and easily added her victory as the new Miss Philippines - Universe. She was not only good looking, she had confidence and poise as well, virtues that enhanced her appeal during the coronation night last March 15, 2003.

19-year old Carla Gay Balingit from Pampanga, is currently attending school at Holy Angel University taking up Tourism. After Miss Universe, she wants to become the Secretary of Tourism of her country. She also like to be a commercial and print ad model. This 1.70m beauty currently prepares to compete in Miss Universe in Colombia, and here is what she has to say:

What made you enter the Miss Philippines beauty pageant?

Answer: It was my greatest dream. I started joining pageants when I was 16 and never lost a pageant. I never expected to win Miss Philippines so up to now I'm still in shock.

(Mutya nina Mexico 2002)

Did you have any models in mind when you join the most prestigious beauty contest in your country?

Answer: I did not have any models in mind when I joined the pageant.

How did you go about it?

Answer: By being myself. I watched pageants and prepared myself physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

What is your proudest accomplishment aside from winning the national pageant in your country?

Answer: That I'm able to financially help my family and support myself and become independent and self-sufficient.

What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?

Answer: I enjoy dancing the most. I like to watch pageants, hanging out with friends, and watching movies.

What are your preparation plans for Miss Universe beauty pageant?

Answer: Currently, I'm training here in Colombia trying to discipline myself and stay focus.

If you become MISS UNIVERSE, what is the primary goal that you want to accomplish?

Answer: I will humbly go to Iraq to be one of the volunteers to help the wounded and try to help young people and children who lost their families because of the war. However, not just focus on Iraq but also to other countries that have some problems.