QUEEN OF PRIDE, EUROPE 2026: KASS TAPIRU OF GERMANY WINS CROWN

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Courtesy of Kass Tapiru's Facebook Account

On 14th March 2026, the inception of Queen of Pride, Europe 2026 took place in Geneva, Switzerland. This was participated in by 16 insightful and remarkable candidates where the coronation night was held at Uptown UOG in Geneva, Switzerland. 

The first edition was organised by a charitable organisation of pageant-enthusiast Filipinos whose objective was to showcase the beauty, charm, eloquence and wits of my fellow transgender women who lives across Europe. 

The pioneering coronation night was well attended by a vibrant audience from the LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/ questioning, intersex and asexual) community and the candidates' admirers where it created a milieu filled with pride and solidarity. 

The spirited night was also hosted by Wendellou Delmar and Raymond Malavega who kept the crowd entertained and involved all night long to entirely forget the cold weather lingering outside. 

TICKETS, REGISTRATION AND ACCOMMODATION

Courtesy of Raymond Malavega's Facebook Account

The coronation night's admission was set at 40 CHF for VIP seats and 30 CHF for regular entry with advanced purchasers receiving a 10% promotional discount. 

Candidates contributed a modest registration fee of 100 – 150 euros where it helped cover essential participation requirements. On the other hand, the charitable organisation generously covered the candidates' two-night accommodation to make their stay pleasant and worry-free. 

CORONATION NIGHT 

Courtesy of Charlene Monteverde's  Facebook Account

The 16 candidates confidently and strikingly graced the stage, opening with an engaging introduction of themselves where each one delivered playful, light-hearted remarks. They then showcased more of their presence and versatility in a series of captivating segments, as follows:

sultry red casual wear

elaborately inspired costume

coquettish swimsuit displays 

glamorously sparkling evening gowns

unique talent presentations 

The audience watched in awe when their favourite candidate(s) appeared on stage. The venue was filled with admiration, applause and excitement. On the other hand, the members of the jury observed each performance with attention where they carefully evaluated and scored the candidates for the various awards, inter alia, major and special awards. 

MINOR, MAJOR AND SPECIAL AWARDS 

The candidates whose performances had stood out throughout the competition were recognised and received the following awards that have been known to me: 

Best in Casual Wear 

Kass Tapiru 

Best in Swimsuit 

Kass Tapiru

Best in Talent 

Kass Tapiru 

Best in Gown 

Kass Tapiru 

Miss Photogenic 

Kass Tapiru 

Miss Congeniality 

(candidate's name unknown) 

Best Smile 

(candidate's name unknown) 

Miss Feminine Look 

(candidate's name unknown) 

There were also a set of Sponsors' Choice awards given to the candidates whose performance and qualities impressed the valued sponsors:

Pinoy Vibes Award 

Charlene Monteverde 

Miss Cream Silk 

(candidate's name unknown) 

The above-mentioned awards had influenced the judging process and impacted the selection of the top 5 finalists. 

TOP 5 FINALISTS 

Courtesy of Charlene Monteverde's  Facebook Account

The candidates who earned a spot in the top 5 faced the time-bound Question-and-Answer segment. They were challenged to the limit of their wit and presence of mind. The finalists, in alphabetical order, were: 

Charlene Monteverde 

Ena Santos

Fritzimae Yee 

Kass Tapiru 

Mitchelle Agusto 

TITLE HOLDER AND RUNNERS-UP 

From Left to Right
Third Runner-up, Mitchelle Agusto 
First Runner-up, Charlene Monteverde 
Queen of Pride, Europe 2026, Kass Tapiru 
Second Runner-up, Fritzimae Yee 
Fourth Runner-up, Ena Santos 
Courtesy of Charlene Monteverde's  Facebook Account

After demonstrating their composure and insight during the Question and Answer segment, the most defining moment was declared and revealed. The unanimously proclaimed pioneering title holder with her runners-up are: 

Queen of Pride, Europe 2026 

Kass Tapiru 

First Runner-up 

Charlene Monteverde 

Second Runner-up 

Fritzimae Yee 

Third Runner-up 

Mitchelle Agusto 

Fourth Runner-up 

Ena Santos 

The newly crowned Queen and her Runners-up were awarded crowns, sashes, bouquets and commensurate cash prizes.

The above relevant details were excerpted from a shared conversation with one of the candidates and public Facebook posts. If you believe any part of the information requires correction, please feel free to contact me and I will update it accordingly. 

MISS MANGO TREE 2018: UNDER THE SEA

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

The management of the Mango Tree Thai Restaurant in London, United Kingdom will transform its place at 46 Grosvenor Pl, Belgravia SW1X 7EQ into a magical deep ocean semblance. A concept which will spruce-up the interiors of the restaurant using this year's “Under the Sea” theme. It will present to all spectators and invited guests a make-believe mise en scène of disguise mermaid impressions; spellbind prop bubbles; improvised clams and many more mesmerising set ups. More importantly, on the 02^nd of September it will highlight the appearances of my fellow transgender women, either as confidently beautiful candidates or vibrant members of the crowd, to this most awaited annual prestigious beauty pageant.  

This year's Miss Mango Tree with the theme, “Under the Sea”, we will see 7 wilful participants emerge on an elevated centre stage. On the night of the event, which will start from 19:00 until late, the candidates will stupefy your eyes with their visionary and resourceful costumes; will make you gasp or carouse by their healthy and toned physiques; will inspire you with their composure in long gowns and will impress you with their wit & intelligence. The veiled question is, who will be the triumphant successor of Miss Mango Tree 2017, Miss Alessandra Mae?

 MISS MANGO TREE OUT OF THIS WORLD 2017

If you are a passionate admirer of transgender women and/or receptive supporter of the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex and Asexual) community and would like to experience another non-prejudice colourful festivity in the heart of London, this event will mostly befit you. Who knows, you will be able to meet new friends (as the clock keeps ticking) and share common interests about life in the long run. 

You still have 3 more weeks to think about attending Miss Mango Tree 2018 and if you would like to know more helpful information you can message directly Sine Kliangsin on, https://www.facebook.com/atikarn.kliangsin. On the other hand, if you are now 100% percent convinced to go to “Under the Sea” then all you require is an advance ticket on the 02^nd of September 2018, just simply navigate http://www.mangotree.org.uk aand look for the “BUY ONLINE TICKETS HERE”.

*Images Courtesy of Sine Kliangsin

LIP GLOSS: THE LAST NIGHT AT EDEN BAR, BIRMINGHAM

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

 

We were dressed-up and ready to hit the glossy town in our chosen guises...

Last Friday night, I ameliorated my attire with plain accessories to correspond with the simplicity of my beauty. On the other hand, my sister embraced the demeanour of a glamorous lady with her floor-length turtle neck appliqué gown in striking red. Exquisitely, she finished her aura by pulling back her silky locks and styled in wavy curls. I have to admit that this sensible hairstyle gave more eminence on the heart shape feature of her forehead. 

I was short-fused upon seeing her and didn't hesitate in arresting Miss Dayanara Mesmeize onto the grounds for outcasting my beauty (LOL)! 

Our chauffeur dropped us as at Eden Bar where we were welcomed by the resolutely magnificent Lip Gloss' organisers... 

From Left to Right
Stephen
Miss Tiffany Jones
 Miss Dayanara Mesmeize 
Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal

The heavy downpour of rain just stopped and petered out to fine drops. What a reviving touch and refreshing sensation given freely by Mother Nature and this was only interrupted when the pre-arranged taxi showed up. Then, we were driven to a Victoria inspired corner building at 116 Sherlock Street, Birmingham. It was a 2-storey refurbished establishment and on entering there was a relaxingly straightforward floor plan. For instance, the small-scale dance floor on the left side had a DJ booth; the inviting couch corner for the legs of binge drinkers; the slightly conspicuous beer joint bar in the middle because of the sheathed pillar; the fantastic outdoor area with airy garden connecting to the vaporous (smoking) site and an indoor game pool zone which was next to the lavatories. Wait a minute, there was an appended double door push bar, too! It was the egress leading to the marquee's domain with an elegant decorated ceiling in metallic silver and established with a cocktail lounge bar on the left, a sturdy elevated stage in the middle, a DJ booth on the right and comforted tables & chairs all set out. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The farewell night unfolded... 

We were greeted inside the marquee by the enthusiastic organisers, Miss Tiffany Jones and Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal, who also welcomed us with a glass of champagne. Both of the organisers were naturally regal in their post Halloween fashion ensembles. Apart from them, some of the guests were wearing daring attire and alluring costumes which were keenly appreciated by the scarce eagled eye admirers.

The venue was ameliorated with reserved tables & chairs for the distinguished guests and a classroom seating arrangement for the invited family & admirers. Geographically speaking, a few of the out-of-towners were from different parts of the United Kingdom who travelled for one purpose. Predominantly, we were there to drink a toast on the ultimate night and after 5 years of triumphs and failures of Lip Gloss. It's a closing celebration and we all highly acknowledged the unceasing determination of the organisers and were strongly reminded of its succinct objectives as a fabulous transgender event. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The core of its objectives as a transgender event in Birmingham is to promote equality, diversity and cohere the transgender community as a family. One of the essentials is to provide a friendly and lively environment at Eden Bar which will encourage crossdressers and transgender to wholly embrace their true identities and selves. A rendezvous brimming with warmth hospitality and cordial people with the same interests and are also in support for combatting society's twisted dogma and discrimination towards the transgender community. Benevolently speaking, this non-judgemental event has a commitment in offering rational communication for partners and relatives to better understand their crossdressers and transgender loved ones. Moreover, this one night event has a desideratum to preserve the transgender community in Midlands and then soundly unites its name all throughout the United Kingdom. 

The celebration progressed with entertaining laudable performances and an occupying aphrodisiac... 

The disco tail lights were on and fixated their brightness onto the stage. In a spur we were overpowered by the quip presence of a Live Cabaret Artiste, Miss Penny. She was dazzling in her thigh-length glossy body hugging dress covered in green sequins. To boot, she surfaced with an intimidating look because of the well-contoured facial cosmetics and the volume 60's sexy bomb hairstyle. Her banter and sarcasm amusedly tickled the audience as well as delighted us with her vocal performance. 

(Live cabaret artiste, Miss Penny)

Miss Penny didn't just devour the stage all alone; she also shared the spotlight with 3 cheerful guests during the the Hula Hoop game. 

After the frolicsome and wiggly performance, we were then invited to enjoy the tasty complimentary canapés. There was a good humoured queue and the prepared light finger food choices were appetising. Our tummies were filled and our energy levels were sustained which kept us all on the qui vive for the rest of the show. 

The venue's fluorescent lights faded and turned dim, thereupon the Drag Idol UK 2016 Finalist and Live Vocalist, Brenda LaBeau, emerged on stage. Her silvery high-pitched voice spiced us with her rendition of “Show a little more, Show a little less...” soundtrack of the Goddess of Pop, Cher, entitled “Welcome To Burlesque”. 

(The Drag Idol UK 2016 Finalist and Live Vocalist, Brenda LaBeau)

After the stunning vocal cords of Brenda LaBeau, she also cheered us with some practical jokes. We were cracked-up and our frisky reaction intensified the venue's mild atmosphere. On top of that, the much anticipated entrance of the male stripper, Icon, who showed up from the crowd made the scene more stimulating. He was in his controlled funky style clothes and one by one, he uncovered and exposed his nakedness. To be more specific, he gained the boldness of his manliness when he took onto the stage 2 of the guests who erotically engaged with during his turtle's pace jiggle and stir. 

With that occupying aphrodisiac concluded, the riveting main hostess for 3 years, Miss Penny, and the stunning Brenda LaBeau called onto stage the company of the unceasing organisers. Sadly, one of the three pillars in the creation of Lip Gloss named Miss Tiffany Jones left the event early because of their planned vacation for the next day. That is why the remaining two, Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal and Miss Dayanara Mesmeize, accepted wholeheartedly the commendable words given by the hostesses and the audience also gave a great expression of approval. What a standing ovation to which they, the organisers, also distinctively awarded the handcrafted sash for this year's Miss Lip Gloss: Queen of the Night. 

From Left to Right
Miss Penny
Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal
 Miss Dayanara Mesmeize 
Brenda LaBeau

(Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal and Miss Dayanara Mesmeize)

The magnificent organisers, Miss Cassandra Mae Madrigal, Miss Dayanara Mesmeize and Miss Tiffany Jones, created the fabulous Lip Gloss to celebrate the community's revelation of strong-minded crossdressers and palpable transgender. For 5 years of pursuing, they have turned this bedrock event at Eden Bar into a safe haven for sexually questioning and evolving individuals who fear society's prejudice towards the LGBTQI+ community. We, the family & supporters, should all not forget their clear objectives and more importantly the organisers who showed perseverance without anticipating a single debt of gratitude. Forthrightly, we must stop factions that divide us and also, to put an end to various unhealthy competitions amongst us. In lieu, we must support one another to hold up the flexible and solid foundation of our characters and self-esteem.

If there is a beginning, there is an end. Per contra, farewell doesn't staggeringly portend the edge to a complete stop as it can also be considered as a milestone for a new beginning!

FILCOM'S BARRIO FIESTA 2017 IN BRISTOL

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

(Photo Courtesy of Bristol Barrio Fiesta 2017's Facebook Event Account)

The United Kingdom is a home away from home for Filipinos who moved here to work and to integrate as they have been living outside the Republic of the Philippines. The numbers of Filipinos who are continuously uplifting the status quo of our image isn't just in the fields of nursing, health and social care but non-profit communities are amongst them, too. These conceptualised groups bound by common interests, works and goals are formed to offer encouragement, support and help with living in the U.K. to Filipinos who are happily integrating into the society. One of many is the Filipino Community (FilCom) in Bristol which patriotically advertises the culture, delicacies and dishes of the Philippines. They also give considerable assistance to the gifted and talented Filipinos which helps to anchor them. 

Bristol has been regarded as the eighth most populous city in the United Kingdom and the most populous city in Southern England. Facts! It has been gaining recognition too when it comes to their own currency, the Bristol Pound; the majestic human harp landmark, the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the music & theatre events at the festival in the summer months. Which is why, the FilCom in this independent city will organise a 1-day spectacular event with the theme, “Hawak Kamay” (Holding Hands/I'm By Your Side). The festival sonorously called Barrio Fiesta 2017 in Bristol will grace its audience with dance and song numbers from their talented participants. They may also astound with an appearance of a guest star fresh from the Republic of the Philippines.

On the 24th of June this year from 08:00 to 18:00, the 1-day Barrio Fiesta 2017 in Bristol will actively exhibit skilled and brilliant talents from youngsters and adults; advertise appetising delicacies & dishes from independent business minded locals and much more. So, don't forget the date which will be held at The Park Local Opportunity Centre on Daventry Road, Knowle, BS4 1DQ Bristol.

If you aren't convinced yet and still would like to know more updates and information, here are the useful links only at your fingertips,

https://www.facebook.com/events/741333856031549/ 

http://www.filcombristol.co.uk/ 

The glorious sunny days are just around the corner and Bristol will definitely delight you with their water and green spaces, too!

WELCOME TO THOMAS'S OF YORK PUB

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Turn to the right of St. Leonard's Place or go straight ahead to the Museum Street? That was the choice we had after visiting the largest Gothic Cathedral in northern Europe, York Minister. We were looking for a local pub to rehydrate our thirsty throats. Yes, we were quite weary and tired after traversing from one street to another. I must say we were wowed with the town centre’s magical beauty in which most streets astonished our expectations. There were well- preserved historical buildings occupied by big commercial establishments; known hotels; affordable yet unique inns; friendly local eating places and also, well established pubs. Like the Thomas's of York Pub managed and operated by Kelly and the Toy Team. 

Travelling can be exhausting and rewarding at the same time too... 

There is a Red House Antique Centre occupying a detached building which is painted in the shades of red (almost salmon) and white. It is indeed brightly conspicuous for visitors and the like! The façade of the building featured a common 2-storey edifice but inside, it had 3 floors without the inclusion of its basement. It had wooden staircases and mezzanines to reach each floor and view the stored classic/ vintage collectible items. A place to explore and if you couldn't find what you are looking for, why not warm yourself up at their cafe & tea room while thinking about their collections that are on sale. Without a doubt, you will find this antique centre easily as it's next to the Saint Wilfrid's Catholic Church on Duncombe Place. 

I stood on a hoisted pedestrian refuge island surrounded with leafy concrete boxes. For a few minutes, I was transported back to the Victorian period because of the vintage and rustic street signs. Can you imagine the sound of galloping horses pulling heavy commercial carriages? If you can, I am sure that you will be ensorcelled, too! Yes, it was a mesmerising occurrence and eventually the street signs guided us through to stay away for awhile from the madding crowd. 

 

 

We crossed over Blake Street and walked on the verge of Museum Street. Adventitiously, we entered a brick-made building with a personalised train station pub's name, ornate Victorian entrance, rows of chimney pots and restored sash windows. Literally, the front windows had on them prints of the local and known recipes as well as posted cut out images of illustrious royalties and renowned actors. 

At long last, we found a local pub with a warmth and jocund ambiance. We walked through the door and on the right side was a stately cosy room with the hanging portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and a union jack flag throne chair, too. Apart from those, the interior of the room has an enlarged fixed picture of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with her subordinates onto the wall with the 16th-century's Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate name above it. Can you now guess the name of the room? It's labelled and known as The Queen's Room! 

 

There was also a staircase leading onto the first floor which was sheathed with unique menu wallpapers and unconventional hanging objects. You will never fail to find their toilets, too! We stayed on the ground floor and went down a short plight of steps to order our refreshments. Sadly, they didn’t serve my choice of non-alcoholic drink which is why, Kelly (the manager) suggested a drink I might like to sip. I thought I would end up having a glass of lime and soda but her suggestion was satisfying! 

We sat and relaxed snugly for an hour on their eye-catching contemporary patchwork sofa which was placed conspicuously on the dance floor area. After that, we moved to another elevated room which was only separated from where we were by a glass unit containing fragile items. The elevated room was interiorly designed with artworks brightly displayed and philosophical sayings on the walls. A very flamboyantly bare-faced section of the pub indeed! I didn’t walked around like I would normally be which would mean examining each floor and even entering 'No Trespassing' rooms. As far as I can vividly remember, it had quarter-turn stairs with newly painted wooden banisters, a huge double hung paned window with half-moon designed and a kelham hall up chandelier. 

  

In the daytime, Thomas's of York Pub is an affable drinking/eating place operated by Kelly and the Toy Team. It is a local pub with a contemporary twist and quaintness which has been valued as a cherished rendezvous for all types of gender. The pub itself has been managed smoothly for years and withstood the test of time because of the management's full and special support to the LGBTQI+ community. When night falls and specifically on Saturday night, this pub becomes a bustling bar boosted with the appearance of special artist(s) and whooping sound systems producing state-of-the-art music. Generally speaking, it is a welcoming place to meet new friends, greet amiable people and connect with the lovely ones; either with a drink in your hand or just simply enjoying the disco- dance rhythms. If ever you plan to visit York, visit and connect with Kelly and the Toy Team who will make you loose and care-free while at Thomas's of York Pub. 

 (With Queenie)

 

 

  (With Alex, Mike and Darren)

We were fully energised and zoomed our way back into the madding crowd. I just couldn't believe that York had lots of gems; places to relish and all reached on foot. The experience of this great city was especially warm because of the conviviality of the local people.