she didn't win but she's still our Miss Philippines

If your family is like mine, then you've been hearing for weeks about the 2009 Miss Universe Pageant and how fellow Filipinos were excited for this year'sMiss Philippines Pamela Manalo.

The last time a Filipina brought home the crown was in 1973.

So when the stunning Manalo took the stage Sunday, many Pinoys were rooting for her to represent our homeland.

How could you not? She's gorgeous.

It's a shame that the 22-year-old flight attendant did not make it to the top 15.

But there's still so many reasons to be proud of her.

I know as a Filipina Mom, I love that the pageant beauty had to lose 30 pounds to enter the competitions.

This makes her so real. Especially as I go through my own weight loss battle right now.

And to hear her sincerity during her public interviews makes me hope Amara will find more Filipina role models such as Manalo.



Manalo may have not won Miss Universe. But she's still our Miss Philippines.

Here's to you, Pamela! Congratulations from Filipina Moms!