MISS Philippines Karen Gallman admits there is huge pressure competing at the 47th Miss Intercontinental pageant but she’d rather do away with it.
“It doesn’t make sense to put pressure on myself more. Ireally just want to have a relaxed mindset and just be present as much as possible,” Gallman said.
She was off to a good start winning two special awards during the press presentation held in Pasay City last Jan. 9. She won media’s choice and beauty standout as presented by sponsor H&H beauty salon owned by Wilbert Tolentino.
The 26-year-old former London-based trade analyst cites the advantage of the international pageant being held here.
“Because Iwill have my supporters supporting me on pageant night, so Iam very excited for that,” she said. “Iam going into the competition really prepared for anything.”
She also acknowledged the demand of trying to win the crown, which has so far eluded the Philippines in the pageant’s 47-year history.
In 2018, the Philippines bet Katarina Rodriguez came close to finally winning it, but settled for a first runner-up finish. Mexico’s Veronica Salas took home the crown.
To finally secure the win for the Philippines, Gallman said she has been working on her walk, eating healthy and practicing for the question and answer. She has also enlisted Patrick Star to work on her national costume and Benj Leguiab IV and Patricia Santos to design her evening gowns.
She is also using her time for various worthy causes. Last September, she was appointed by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process one of the country’s peace ambassadors. She considers peace, education and children’s welfare as the causes she’s most passionate about.
Gallman is hoping to ride on the momentum created by Catriona Gray’s scintillating Miss Universe victory just last month.
“She is an inspiration to us all. She has set a platform for all of us girls to now aim for which makes us push harder,” she added.
Eighty-seven contestants from around the world are competing at the 47th Miss Intercontinental beauty pageant which will be staged at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Jan. 26. (ROBERT R. REQUINTINA)
