JENNIFER BARRIENTOS: Bb. Pilipinas 2008 - Universe

Took up Tourism in the University of Sto. Tomas, from San Mateo Rizal, previously worked in Holiday Inn and Macau Star World Hotel

Why did you join? “It was my mother’s dream and now it’s mine.” “This will also help me achieve my other dreams such as being a model for high fashion magazines and fashion shows.”

What makes you stand out from the rest? “I always do my best. I know how to stay calm in a tight situation. My looks are also different. Many think I’m Indian but I am pure Filipino.” “I come from a Christian family so I really value my relationship with God.”

PATRICIA FERNANDEZ: Bb. Pilipinas 2008 - International

Speech communication graduate

Why did you join? “In 2006, a local pageant was the subject of my thesis. It opened my eyes to this industry. Now I really want to get the chance to represent the country.”

What makes you stand out from the rest? “I am very determined, and in this setting, I know that someone with great determination will really make good. I am also a fun and exciting person with a very colorful and versatile personality.”

JANINA SAN MIGUEL: Bb. Pilipinas 2008 - World

Mass Communications student at University of the East

Why did you join? “To gain a lot of experiences, new friends and opportunities” “Bata pa talaga ako, dream ko na ito talaga. Nakikita ko sa TV and I think it’s a nice experience. I knew then that I would try it.”

What makes you stand out from the rest? “My confidence and my personality, even if this is my first time in a big pageant. I was first runner-up in Miss UE.”

DENIELLE CASTANO: Bb. Pilipinas 2008 - 1st Runner-up

Plans to take up nursing next year, from Quezon City
Why did you join? “It has been my dream since I was a kid. My parents were initially against any form of publicity or modeling but they are supporting now. I also dream to help those who are ill and less fortunate.”

What makes you stand out from the rest? “I’m bubbly and I’m into sports. I was in the track and field varsity team in Hoover High School in the US and I also play volleyball. I’d like to think that I am versatile and have a lot of things to offer. I’m not scared of expressing myself fully because I admit that I do love the attention.”

Hobbies: boxing, running around the village, going to the gym

ELIZABETH JACQUELINE NACUSPAG: Bb. Pilipinas 2008 - 2nd Runner-Up

Graduate of Tourism in Centro Escolar University, part-time model, plans to enroll in flight school after the pageant

Why did you join? “Since I was a kid, I’ve been watching the pageant and I am so elated to see that I’m finally here. This is every girl’s childhood dream. It would also be very nice to look back and be able to share significant and remarkable experiences with my future kids. Besides, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so why not?” “I get strength from the people who believe in me and believe that I can be somebody. I’m just living my dream right now.” “If I win, I want to help provide better education to everyone. I really believe that it’s not just for the privileged few. I think this will really help our country.”

What makes you stand out from the rest? “I don’t want to think that it is what’s physical. It’s the support from those who love and believe in me. You feel their love and it radiates from inside you. And if you love what you are doing, it really shows.”

Hobbies: Having coffee and chatting with friends, going to the gym, boxing, going to the movies