A Guide to Understanding the Big 4 Beauty Pageants

Have you ever wondered why beauty pageants captivate so many people? What is it about these contests that make us tune in, cheer on, and follow every twist and turn? And how do these pageants actually impact the world we live in? Despite the countless beauty competitions happening all over the globe, there are four that stand out as the most prestigious—the so-called Big 4: Miss Earth, Miss International, Miss World, and Miss Universe.

But what exactly makes each of these pageants unique? How do they differ from one another? Let’s break it down!

Beauty with a Purpose: Miss World

Miss World, founded in 1951 by Eric Morley in England, is not your typical beauty pageant. Sure, there’s the glitz, the glamour, and the talent, but at its core, Miss World is about purpose. Contestants are judged not only on their looks and abilities but also on their commitment to charity and community service. The idea is simple: beauty should inspire change, and contestants use their platform to champion important causes.

The Philippines made history in 2013 when Megan Young became the first Filipino to win the Miss World crown. Megan competed in six categories, earning 3rd Runner-Up in Multimedia, 4th Runner-Up in Beach Beauty, and clinching the Top Model title. But it wasn’t just her looks or poise that impressed the judges—it was her heart.

Megan’s winning answer during the final Q&A resonated deeply with everyone:

“A Miss World Philippines is selfless, and in order to be selfless, you need to have a heart. If I win this crown, I will pour my heart and soul into helping others, which is what Miss World is: beauty in giving.”

Her words captured the essence of Miss World: it’s not just about beauty, but about making the world a better place.

Peace and Love: Miss International

Founded in 1960 by the International Cultural Association and based in Tokyo, Japan, Miss International is one of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants. But it’s not just about looks. This pageant showcases contestants’ unique cultures and heritage, celebrating diversity and global unity. While beauty, intelligence, personality, and confidence are key, contestants are also judged on their ability to promote international friendship and peace as goodwill ambassadors.

The Philippines has a proud history in Miss International, with six Filipinas having won the coveted crown. These winners include:

Gemma Cruz-Araneta (1964)
Aurora Pijuan (1970)
Mimilanie Marquez (1979)
Lara Quigaman (2005)
Bea Rose Santiago (2013)
Kylie Verzosa (2016)

In addition to its six crowns, the Philippines is known for consistently dominating the runner-up spots. Four Filipinas have claimed the title of First Runner-Up in Miss International, showing that the country’s pageant contenders are always a top contender:

Evelyn Camus (1971)
Yolanda Dominguez (1972)
Elena Ojeda (1973)
Ahtisa Manalo (2018)

Miss International is also deeply committed to promoting an empowering message for women worldwide. Its advocacy is centered on creating a safer world where women can thrive with confidence, inner strength, and individuality, free from judgment. It’s not just about outer beauty, but about celebrating women who embrace their uniqueness and use their voices to make a difference.

Beauties for a Cause: Miss Earth

Founded in 2001 by Carousel Productions in Manila, Philippines, Miss Earth has quickly become one of the “Big 4” international beauty pageants, thanks to its unique focus on environmental advocacy. Unlike other pageants that primarily emphasize beauty, intelligence, and poise, Miss Earth’s main mission is to inspire young women to champion the cause of environmental preservation and sustainability. Contestants are judged not only on their looks and intelligence but also on their passion for protecting the planet and their ability to encourage others to take action for the environment.

The Philippines has proudly produced four Miss Earth winners:

Karla Paula Henry (2008)
Jamie Herrell (2014)
Angelia Gabrena Ong (2015)
Karen Ibasco (2017)

In addition, Celeste Cortesi made a strong showing by finishing as a Top 8 finalist in 2022 and later went on to represent the Philippines at Miss Universe 2022.

Before the grand coronation, Miss Earth contestants engage in a variety of activities that promote environmental awareness—whether it’s participating in clean-up drives, tree planting, or raising awareness about climate change. These activities allow contestants to not only showcase their advocacy but to actively contribute to the planet’s well-being.

Miss Earth is truly a pageant where beauty meets purpose, reminding us that the most important thing we can do with our platform is to protect and nurture the world we live in.

Confidently Beautiful: Miss Universe

Founded in 1952 by Pacific Mills and later acquired by the Miss Universe Organization, Miss Universe is the world’s most anticipated beauty pageant. It’s known for its glamour, stunning gowns, and the dazzling beauty of its contestants. While it shares similar qualities with other major pageants—like beauty, intelligence, and personality—Miss Universe places a special emphasis on confidence and empowerment, encouraging contestants to advocate for causes they’re passionate about.

Unlike some other pageants that focus heavily on charitable work, Miss Universe gives more room for contestants to showcase their confidence, poise, and ability to speak out on global issues. During the Question and Answer portion, contestants are asked to weigh in on pressing social issues, testing their ability to express their views, stand by their principles, and show moral clarity. These topics can range from the ongoing humanitarian crises like the Gaza conflict, to climate change and gender equality—issues that require both knowledge and empathy.

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The Philippines has a long and proud history in Miss Universe, having won the coveted crown four times:

Gloria Diaz (1969)
Margie Moran (1973)
Pia Wurtzbach (2015)
Catriona Gray (2018)

Today, Chelsea Manalo is the Philippines’ representative on the global stage, continuing the country’s legacy of beauty and poise.

Philippines: A Powerhouse of Beauty Queens

Even without the crown, the Philippines consistently produces top-tier contestants who become pageant icons. Here are some notable runner-ups who will always hold a special place in the hearts of Filipinos:

Lalaine Bennett – 3rd Runner-Up (1963)
Rose Marie Brosas – 4th Runner-Up (1975)
Maria Rosario Rivera Silayan – 3rd Runner-Up (1980)
Desiree Verdadero – 3rd Runner-Up (1984)
Miriam Quiambao – 1st Runner-Up (1999)
Venus Raj – 4th Runner-Up (2010)
Shamcey Supsup – 3rd Runner-Up (2011)
Janine Tugonon – 1st Runner-Up (2012)
Ariella Arida – 3rd Runner-Up (2013)

Whether wearing the crown or placing as a runner-up, these women continue to inspire with their grace, intelligence, and strength. Miss Universe isn’t just about beauty—it’s about owning your voice, standing for what matters, and representing the world with confidence.

The Commonground: More than just beauty

Beauty pageants are often seen as contests of glamour, but they offer much more than physical beauty. Each pageant has its own unique purpose and advocacy, and they serve as powerful platforms for change. These contests celebrate the values that unite us—empowerment, social responsibility, and global solidarity—rather than just comparing national beauty.

From Miss Universe to Miss Earth, Miss World, and Miss International, these pageants give women a platform to champion causes they care about—whether advocating for the environment, promoting education, fighting for gender equality, or supporting underprivileged communities. These queens use their titles to raise awareness and inspire action. They build bridges across countries, working together to create positive change.

Though some may still focus solely on appearance, the true value of these beauty queens goes far beyond the surface. They are leaders who embody strength, intelligence, and resilience. They show the world that beauty is not just about looks—it’s about confidence, compassion, and the ability to use one’s voice to inspire and make a difference.