The Grand Battle of the First runner-ups
The saying “Always a bridesmaid but never the bride” is a prevalent in any competition. In pageants for example, many candidates would experience this by falling short from taking home the crown despite their best efforts. Truly, a tragic situation, while some perceive this as the end of their journey, others see it as a sign of redirection.
For its debut, Miss Grand Philippines will feature not only one or two but four 1st runner-up beauties in its 2023 pageant. Despite of the cold reception among Filipino fans, there is no denying that having the likes of Nikki de Moura, Michelle Arceo, Shanon Tampon, and Herlene Budol competing together is indeed, interesting.
Photo credits to Bong Tan of Missosology
With their common denominator setting them apart from the competition, these girls intend to change that and prevail. In finding out who has the best possibility of taking home the country’s first golden crown, let’s get to know them a little bit.
The Grand Battle of the First runner-ups
Nikki de Moura
As one of the biggest surprises during the screening, Nikki’s participation in Miss Grand Philippines is both unexpected and exciting. Despite being one of the youngest at the age of 19, she’s not one to be taken lightly.
Marking her first national pageant after four years, the Filipino-Brazilian model is a former Miss Teen Philippines in 2019. Nikki is more popularly known for participating in the multi-platform reality competition Supermodel Me. Competing in season six, she finished first runner-up and is the highest placing Filipina on the show.
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Michelle Arceo
For Miss Environment International 2022 1st runner-up Michelle Arceo, a grand experience deserves a grand transformation. Definitely in her golden fighting form, the 25-year-old model has been preparing hard and is ready to give us her all.
A certified pageant girl with a strong resume, Michelle is without a doubt, one to keep an eye on. Among her notable accolades include the following: Century Tuna Superbods 2022 1st runner-up and Miss BodyCon 2019.
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Shanon Tampon
After accomplishing an elite journey, 26-year-old Sales and marketing executive Shanon Tampon is now off to a grand beginning. Finishing high on her first international stint, the Miss Elite World 2022 1st runner-up is definitely aiming to go even higher.
As one of the frontrunners for this edition, Shannon checks all the boxes that a Miss Grand Philippines should be. With a stunning face, grace, and overall appeal, she is expected to go far and maybe all the way.
Herlene Budol
Perhaps the most anticipated candidate for this year’s competition. Actress-turned-beauty queen Herlene Budol is surely keeping her eyes on the golden prize. The first runner-up of Binibining Pilipinas 2022 is undoubtedly not giving up without a fight after her failed bid at the crown.
Given Herlene’s prominent status, big fan base, and enthusiastic supporters, it will be difficult not to notice her. Adding that to her already driven attitude and larger-than-life personality, things might go in her favor this time.
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Miss Grand Philippines will crown its inaugural winner on July 13 at the Mall of Asia Arena. With two other crowns in tow, its definitely going to a close race for these four.
Best of luck, beautiful ladies and may the grandest of the all win!
