The End of An Era: Miss Universe Philippines under the IMG Era
Just a few days ago, Miss Universe formally announced Thai Billionaire Jakapong ‘Anne’ Jakrajutatip as its newest owner. Holding an extravagant dinner in Thailand, this marks the start of a new era for the pageant.
In its 70-year history, Miss Universe has been handled by different business entities and well-known personalities. Prior to Anne’s acquisition, Miss Universe was previously managed by modelling giant IMG or International Management Group.
As part of the greater Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc., IMG bought Miss Universe in 2015 from then Business Mogul Donald Trump.
From 2015 to 2021, the IMG era of Miss Universe is best remembered for its rebranding of the pageant. Putting emphasis on the importance of social issues concerning women, IMG shifts Miss Universe towards a more progressive direction.
It is also within this era that the Philippines finally reached its peak powerhouse status. Aside from winning two Miss Universe crowns, our placement streak is still very much alive and active.
With Miss Universe 2022 only a month away, it is very interesting to see how we’ll fair in this new climate. Considering that Thais and Filipinos are huge pageant competitors, will a new powerhouse emerge or will we continue to dominate?
While we wait for all of that to unfold, let’s pay tribute to seven Uniquely Beautiful Filipinas who raised our flag during the IMG Era.
Miss Universe Philippines under the IMG Era
2015
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe Philippines 2015
Placement: Winner
Pageant Venue: The AXIS, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
2016
Maria Mika Maxine Perez Medina, Miss Universe Philippines 2016
Placement: Top 6 Finalist
Pageant Venue: MOA Arena, Pasay City, Philippines
Eventual Winner: Iris Mittenaere of France
2017
Rachel Louise Obregon Peters, Miss Universe Philippines 2017
Placement: Top 10 Semifinalist
Pageant Venue: The AXIS, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Eventual Winner: Demi-Leigh Nel-Peteres of South Africa
2018
Catriona Elisa Magnayon Gray, Miss Universe Philippines 2018
Placement: Winner
Pageant Venue: Impact Arena, Bangkok, Thailand
2019
Gazini Christiana Jordi Acopiado Ganados, Miss Universe Philippines 2019
Placement: Top 20 Semifinalist
Pageant Venue: Tyler Perry Studios, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Eventual Winner: Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa
2020
Rabiya Occeña Mateo, Miss Universe Philippines 2020
Placement: Top 20 Semifinalist
Pageant Venue: Seminole Hard Rock Resort and Casino, Hollywood, Florida, USA
Eventual Winner: Andrea Meza of Mexico
2021
Beatrice Luigi Gallarde Gomez, Miss Universe Philippines 2021
Placement: Top 5 Finalist
Pageant Venue: Universe Dome, Eilat, Israel
Eventual Winner: Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa
Thank you IMG for helping each contestant to use their voice and serve as leaders in their own right. As we welcome the new era, may this practice continue and further cement Miss Universe as the World’s Top Beauty Pageant.
