Miss USA sympathizes with Miss RP

By Bev Llorente, ABS-CBN North America News Bureau

Posted at 08/13/2010 1:43 PM | Updated as of 08/14/2010 12:15 PM

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Candidates to the Miss Universe 2010 were treated to an international dinner at the World Market Center in Las Vegas.

All 83 contestants wore their astonishing cocktail dresses and were dressed to impress even after attending a full day of events for the beauty pageant.
The Philippines' bet, Venus Raj, looked stunning in her white and black mini cocktail dress. Raj said it's been an incredible experience for her.
“Saan ba ko kanina? May interview ako sa NBC kasi lahat talaga ng girls dapat mag undergo doon sa interview na yun,” Raj said.
During the interview, Raj said she was asked to describe her national gown.
“Kung anong itsura, why did you prefer to use that gown? What’s the color? What’s the design? Tapos doon na rin tinape yung sasabihin mo sa national gown na Maria Venus Raj, 22, Philippines. Ang galing! Ang saya, saya," Raj exclaimed.
Raj admitted missing her mother. She added that her mom could have come over to watch her live and give her moral support, but transportation can be very costly.
Raj has come a long way since her controversial dethronement as Binibining Pilipinas in March due to inconsistencies in her birth certificate.

Fellow contestant and Miss USA representative, Rima Fakih, sympathized with Miss Philippines. Fakih was also scrutinized for being a Muslim American.
"I think they never understood the fact, yes, I was Muslim. Everyone has their own religion, their own traditions, and we are more liberal. I think Miss Philippines, in her situation with the passports, the fact that everyone didn't claim her as being Miss Philippines, everyone didn't think I was a good Miss USA and I could relate to her and I was excited to meet her in the pageant,” said Fakih.
The Miss Universe 2010 contestants are expected to participate in many more activities in the days leading up to coronation night at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino.
ABS-CBN Manila will be airing the coronation night live on August 24.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com