Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 8) — Binibining Pilipinas hosts Catriona Gray and Nicole Cordoves have clarified that there was no mix-up in the selection of winners during the recent coronation night, after pageant fans and netizens took notice of the delayed announcement of the new Binibining Pilipinas International.
Shortly after Gabrielle Basiano of Eastern Samar was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental and before the winner of the night’s most important title was announced, netizens expressed worries that there might have been a “Steve Harvey moment” after pageant officials were seen in a huddle with the hosts on stage.
A few minutes later, Cebu’s Nicole Borromeo was proclaimed Binibining Pilipinas International, completing the list of the newly crowned queens.
In a joint statement on Monday evening, Gray and Cordoves wrote: “As the hosts of last night’s Binibining Pilipinas 2022, we announced the winners accordingly based on the titles printed on the cards as these were handed over by SGV & Co. partner and representative, Mr. Ocho.”
“As a member of the overseeing committee during the deliberations, Mr. Ocho later rechecked the cards and confirmed that the results previously announced were correct, which became the decisive factor in moving forward with the announcement,” the statement further read.
The two explained that had there been any error in the announcement, they would immediately address it on stage.
“As former candidates ourselves, we understand what the girls go through and would, therefore — without a second thought — correct any errors, if any were made,” they added. “But as already explained, SGV & Co. partner and representative Mr. Ocho himself confirmed the validity of the results.”
Gray, who won Miss Universe 2018, said separately, “Let’s celebrate our Queens who are wearing their rightful crowns. Congratulations to our new @bbpilipinasofficial Queens! I’m so excited to witness your journeys and I know you will make our country proud!”
Cordoves, who finished as 1st runner-up at Miss Grand International 2016, also expressed support for the winners.
“Congratulations to our new queens! Your reign may not always be as smooth-sailing, but that’s what makes Binibinis special — we learn to command the waves,” Cordoves said.
Aside from Borromeo and Basiano, Chelsea Fernandez was named Pilipinas Globe, while Roberta Tamondong was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Grand International.
Borromeo will represent the country at the 61st edition of the Miss International pageant in 2023, while the three other winners will compete in their respective international pageants later this year.
Nicole Budol, the comedian and TV host more popularly known as “Hipon,” and Stacey Gabriel, both from Rizal, were first and second runners-up, respectively.
READ: Binibining Pilipinas 2022 pageant crowns new queens
