Another Tuesday brings another enjoyable, heartfelt, and insightful conversation with Kuantie Melai Cantiveros-Francisco on “Kuan On One.” The February 17 episode features BisDak beauty queen, Miss Universe Philippines 2014 titleholder and Top 10 finalist at Miss Universe 2014, MJ Lastimosa, shining with her beauty, wit, and sophistication.
Soon after the loud excitement upon her entrance, MJ joyfully recounted her life before winning pageant titles, unexpectedly being discovered for the limelight, and sharing her dream of building a family. She then enthusiastically joined Melai Cantiveros in their sash-making session, with the two exchanging laughter and admiration for their self-chosen titles, beautifully written on silky pink and silver-adorned sashes.
For Melai, the “Miss Kuan-omenal” (Phenomenal), this title stems from the love she has been giving and receiving from her family—Jason Francisco, Mela and Stela. Adding a touch of her iconic humor, Melai emphasizes that she would do anything for them out of immense love before placing a golden crown on her head and wearing her signature tearful expression.
“You’re the light of your family,” MJ sweetly comments.
Following through, the esteemed beauty queen, MJ, proudly wears her “Miss Kuan-lity” (quality) title. She explains that she embraced it while reflecting on her journey in pageantry and her personal Bisdak life. Rather than focusing on the quantity of accolades, friends, wealth, or other measures, she prioritizes honing and sharing the “quality” of herself as a person—being kind and good to others.
“Who I am to the people that surround me, to my environment, to every person [and] every soul that I touch… [my personality] will matter the most,” she expresses.
Throughout the episode, MJ is truly the embodiment of what a beauty queen should be—not just for the title, flawless appearance, or striking intelligence, but for how she uses her capabilities to inspire others, which is exactly what the world needs.
Look forward to more cozy conversations with Kuantie Melai on “Kuan on One,” streaming every Tuesday on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel and on iWant.