Binibining Pilipinas says 'full support' for Samantha Bernardo in Miss Grand International bid

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, February 10 ------ The organization also explains why Bb Pilipinas Grand International 2019 Aya Abesamis won't be able to compete. Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc (BPCI) confirmed the selection of Samantha Bernardo as the country's representative to the Miss Grand International happening on March 27. "We extend our full support in her quest to win the first MGI crown for the country," BPCI said in a statement released Tuesday, February 9 on its Facebook page.

The organization also explained why Bb Pilipinas Grand International 2019 Aya Abesamis was unable to compete. Aya, who was 1st runner-up took over the duties after Samantha Lo resigned in late 2019. "Our heart goes out to Aya Abesamis for being unable to join MGI 2020 due to age limit, caused by the delay of the MGI contest because of the COVID pandemic." "She remains as our Bb Pilipinas Grand International 2019 and will pass on her crown during the Bb Pilipinas pageant in April."

The organization also said they appreciated both Samantha and Aya for their efforts and wished them the best of luck in their future plans. The Miss Grand International pageant announced on February 5 that Samantha, 28 will represent the Philippines in the pageant, to be held in Thailand. The highest placement the country has gotten was 1st runner-up courtesy of Nicole Cordoves in 2016. Prior to her appointment as Bb Pilipinas Grand International 2020, Samantha was 2nd runner-up in both 2018 and 2019.

Source: rappler.com