MANILA, Philippines (Reuters) — Miss Universe candidates kicked off the preliminary show in Manila on Thursday (January 26).
Over 86 candidates are in the Philippine capital to participate in the beauty contest, which will culminate in a coronation night on January 30.
Crowds packed the Mall Of Asia Arena as each candidate showcased their swimsuits, evening gowns and national costumes in front of the judges.
The preliminary competition will be used to determine the Top 12 for the pageant night, the Miss Universe website said.
Spectators were entertained by the show .
“The whole world is being united, and even though we don’t know each other, we still enjoy the event,” said Apple Natividad, who went to the preliminaries with her friends.
Some even dressed like Miss Universe candidates to join the fanfare.
“This is a venue for beauty, but also the beauty of the heart , especially for us Filipinos who are fanatics for pageants,” said Rania Ziateh who wore a Miss Philippines sash.
Over half a million people are expected to tune in to watch the coronation night next week, organisers said.
Filipina beauty queen Pia Wurtzbach currently holds the Miss Universe crown from 2015.