THE EXISTING PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED THE RULES OF OUR DAILY LIVES. Reinvention is essential for staying "afloat," as is maintaining a good attitude in the face of approaching uncertainty, as we don't know when we'll be able to return to routine. No, it's not going to happen anytime soon. Nobody knows when this will come to an end.

Aside from basketball and boxing, Filipinos see beauty pageants as a personal and significant life event. It is every girl's childhood fantasy, and every mother's hope for her daughters.

Winning a beauty pageant confirms one's attractiveness (with a purpose) and brains. It gives one a sense of pride to have the distinction of representing one's nation on a worldwide scale.

But, more than the klieg lights and glitz, pageants are designed to empower women (repeat: women, referring to all women in general): from boosting their confidence to providing chances to expand and flourish.

It is a warm and encouraging atmosphere designed to propel women to achievement. After all, a self-assured and successful woman has the ability to affect genuine change in the lives of individuals around her, her local community, and even a worldwide audience.

Is it time for a new normal winner for beauty pageants at a time when the epidemic is still looming and has forced us back to the simplest, most basic of things, when many of us have to fend for ourselves to survive?

If beauty pageant judges take a hint from the development of social media bloggers-slash-influencers, some are entirely outside the stereotypical sort of "star material," but are renowned because people are not intimidated by their appearance. They are persons to whom people from all walks of life may connect.

People are more concerned on what they say, their message, and how they offer their support, in good and bad times, without regard for their appearance or figure.

Although beauty pageants are unique in that they are required to apply criteria, the judges should go beyond the walk, face, and whistle-bait physique in swimwear and evening gown. May they go deeper into their desire to serve, what's inside their hearts, and pay special attention to their voices.

The struggle is therefore not just among the candidates, but also among the judges.

As we live in ever-changing (if not gloomy) times, when "in person" encounters are still challenged (and more are done virtually/online), and individuals wear face masks and shields, may we witness their best version of a "new normal" victor.

There are professionals and experienced individuals, but who knows? One of the youthful, energetic, and promising newcomers may turn out to be the most capable, eager, and effective beauty to play the part and influence others with their voice.

After all, whomever wins the crown will be the nation's official voice.

The gorgeous or the seductive muse with towering height do not belong to the Filipinos.