In the realm of beauty pageants, few myths have persisted today as strongly as the so-called “Gloria Diaz Curse.”
Gloria Diaz, the first Filipina to win the Miss Universe crown in 1969, has long been a revered figure in the pageant world. Her victory in the Miss Universe pageant was a monumental moment for the Philippines, marking the country’s debut on the global pageant stage. Her win brought immense pride and joy to the nation, and Diaz herself became a beloved figure.
Recently, something has captured the imagination of pageant enthusiasts and casual observers alike: contestants facing questions from Diaz herself during pageants often appear flustered or unable to provide strong answers. This pattern has reignited discussions during the recent #BinibiningPilipinas60, where the 1969 queen is one of the judges.
During the coronation night of the said pageant, a moment from the Q&A portion, Diaz asked one of the candidates the question, “What physical asset do you have that should make you win Binibining Pilipinas?”
However, as the candidate answered, Gloria seemed to not be satisfied, and reiterated her question, “What physical asset do you have?”
Of course, Pinoy fans are quick to share their thoughts on various social media pages. Many speculated that Diaz’s presence or her questions carry a unique pressure.
Many also compared the event to a similar situation, where Gloria herself is a judge during the Binibining Pilipinas 2001.
Meanwhile, during an interview, the first Miss Universe herself dismisses the idea of the curse saying, “Mahirap ba ‘yon? Ang dali dali na nga [Is that difficult? It’s very easy].”
The “Gloria Diaz Curse” remains a captivating story within the pageant community, blending cultural lore with the high drama of beauty contests. Whether fact or fiction, it underscores the intense pressure and high stakes that contestants face. As with many myths, it ultimately serves to enrich the narrative of pageantry, highlighting the legacy of Gloria Diaz and the enduring passion for beauty contests in the Philippines.
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