By Mark Vincent A. Durano

Far Eastern University (FEU) fourth-year International Studies student Vienne Shirin Feucht and second-year Medical Technology student Maria Abegail Jajalla vied for a crown in the 60th Binibining Pilipinas Coronation Night held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City yesterday, July 7.

Feucht represented Calamba, Laguna while Jajalla sashed for the province of Camiguin. 

From the pool of 40 women, the International Studies student advanced to the semifinals as part of the Top 15. 

In the question and answer portion, Feucht mentioned she would invite French feminist Simone de Beauvoira to judge the pageant in relation to herr anti-violence against women and children advocacy.

“She has opened my eyes that we, women, have the most right to be powerful because we can lead an entire army. And I want her to see the strong women versions in this generation,” the Calambeña answered.

Before the contest, Feucht won other pageant titles including Miss Rotary 2023 and Miss Bikini Philippines 2021 first runners-up.

Meanwhile, Binibining Pilipinas marked Jajalla’s debut in the pageant scene.

The Camiguignon expressed gratitude for the people who supported her and also took pride in repping her hometown in a Facebook post.

“I’ve always been proud of showcasing the beautiful and mesmerizing wonders of my island home—and even more so after this journey. It is where I grew up and where my childhood shaped me into who I am today,” the statement read.

In its 60th year, Myrna Esguerra of Abra donned Binibining Pilipinas International 2024 crown, and Jasmin Mabungay of Pampanga for Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2024.

(Photos courtesy of Binibining Pilipinas)