SAMANTHA BERNARDO, 25 years of age from Puerto Princesa City from the largest province, Palawan. She is an aspiring candidate for BINIBINING PILIPINAS 2018. A competitive rhythmic gymnast for 9 years during her elementary and high school year and always represents her province in National Competition. Her intent was to advocate CULTURE AND ARTS and former President of Cultural Group that Showcases Philippine Tradition through Folkdances, The PSU Sining Palawan Dancetroupe. Young women are judged mainly on their physical appearance, while their personal qualities and talents are not judged. Beauty pageants are well promoted by the media with television and images, which influence young women’s opinions on appearance. The participants of these pageants are poor role models for these young women as they set a standard for an almost unhealthy body weight, unrealistic breast size, and flawless complexion standards. Only a small minority of women can realistically achieve this “ideal” female body. The media pressures all young women to conform which can encourage unhealthy dieting and eating disorders, tanning, cosmetic surgery, and simply to keep working to achieve unrealistic, temporary goals that often have irreversible damages. Samantha Bernardo is an example of a Beauty with a purpose!
