Jonas Gaffud describes this year’s Miss Universe PH: One-of-a-kind
As most of us know, the 2020 Miss Universe Philippines will be held this October spearheaded by the stand-alone organization of Miss Universe Philippines composed of Jonas Gaffud (Creative Director); Mario Garcia (Business Development & Marketing); Albert Andrada (Design Council Head); Lia Ramos (Head of Women Empowerment and Charity); Atty. Nad Bronce (Head of Legal Affairs); RS Francisco and Sam Verzosa (Frontrow/Sponsors/Presentors) and Shamcey Supsup-Lee (National Director).
And in a recent online Q&A (question & answer) with Jonas, the MUPh Creative Director answers some important queries in regards with the prestigious beauty pageant.
In what ways does Miss Universe Philippines wish to be different from how Filipinos have perceived beauty pageants over the years?
“We want to emphasize a woman as a strong leader. Someone who inspires positive action. We aim to develop these women not just to look their best physically, but even more so, strengthen them mentally and emotionally. This is especially important now as we face a great challenge on a global scale. The winner and the organization should be able to take an active role in all these.”
For the first time in pageant history, a separate organization is sending the Philippines’ bet to the Miss Universe tilt. How has it been so far?
“It has been great! Very challenging but also exhilarating. The support from partners and sponsors is overwhelming. We are humbled and challenged because of the trust and confidence they placed in us. Having this stand-alone organization is also good because it allows us to focus better.”
What is the new normal for beauty pageantry? Are there any steps you want institutionalized or particular practices that must be put in place?
“In hindsight, we should have pushed for a “new normal” even without a pandemic.
“Beyond photo ops and lip service, we should have a more concrete and consistent approach to advocacies.
“We always hear the contenders in any pageant say that they have advocacies, but organizations should have a more visible and active commitment to support these advocacies.”
What will be the audience‘s part be in this season? Given the pandemic and the transition to a new normal might take a long time?
“The audience will always play a big part whether you are a pageant fan or not. The planned limited series is now a fundraising activity via pay-per-view access, which actually gives the audience a more active role in making the event a success.
“A significant portion of the proceeds will go to a lot of people and their families displaced by COVID-19.
“We’re afraid that we have barely begun to realize the long term effects of this crisis. Filipinos are known to really celebrate Christmas and we want to somehow still capture that holiday cheer this year.”
How will the organization implement physical/social distancing if the pageant pushes through in June?
Is a casting call format an alternative in case?
“Since we are not pushing through in June, we have time to shoot all videos we need for the limited series, following the guidelines mandated by the government, and just really prudence in everything we do.
“Protecting our ladies, our entire workforce and everyone on the ground, for this production is our utmost concern. Our current plan is to limit production shoots to only five people.
“Time is of the essence so we want everybody to be on schedule. We plan to hire production crews all over the Philippines so we can also create jobs.
“By September, we hope to resume shoots in Metro Manila, at the most with only a maximum of ten people on set, with ample space, of course.”
What should the pageant enthusiasts expect from MUPh once everything keeps going?
“Pageant enthusiasts can expect a more dynamic role of young women leaders around the Philippines. We also promise the final show in October will be one-of-a-kind.
“The theme, the opening number, the colors, and the interviews will be very interesting, to say the least.
“Not to be coy, but all I can say is we will give you a SHOW unlike anything you have seen before.”
How does the COVID-19 pandemic affect your preparations for the 2020 pageant?
“No industry was really spared by this crisis. Specifically in our case, it has been very difficult because movement is limited, so all schedules need to be moved, contestants and employees secured, and our partners assured of our commitment to seeing this project through.
“But we are also motivated because this can be a venue for us to help one another. We have studied all efforts for us to be able to help our country not only for short-term relief but for the coming years as well.
“It will be a long road ahead but we plan to stay on and be with the Filipino people. We constantly look for ways to deliver community service.”
Who will be crowning the first winner of Miss Universe Philippines?
“Of course we would love for it to be Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados.”
In the event that the contender exceeds the age limit based on the MUPh and MU finals dates (TBD) but were previously eligible, will they be allowed to compete?
“All contenders at this point until next year are eligible for Miss Universe.”
How is the coordination with the other countries and their respective delegates/contenders?
Are there countries who backed out for fear of the pandemic?
“We are not aware of countries backing out at this point. As for coordination, the one we are most in touch with is Valerie Lim of Miss Universe Singapore, with whom we are discussing some donation initiatives.”
With changes in our world cause by COVID-19, will the criteria for choosing the next Miss Universe Philippines also changed?
“I don’t think it is necessary to change the criteria. We have set the standards from the very start; that we would like to train the women not merely as contenders but empowered individuals. We believe that all our contenders are capable of being an inspiration whether they will the crown or not.”
