Singapore, 16 March 2026 – The Philippine Embassy in Singapore, through its Sentro Rizal, hosted a book talk by Dr. Gene Segarra Navera entitled Beauty Spectacle: Pageants, Fan Culture, and the Filipino Adoration for Queens on 13 March 2026, at the newly relaunched Sentro-Rizal Singapore at 20 Nassim Road. The event formed part of the Embassy’s National Women’s Month (NWM) activity series under the theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society” and the call to “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”.

In her opening remarks, First Secretary and Consul General Joyleen E. Santos highlighted that this year’s theme draws inspiration from the babaylans of pre-colonial Philippine society — women leaders known for their wisdom and moral authority. She noted that while pageantry is often associated with glamour, it remains a consistent platform where Filipinas represent their communities, advocate for meaningful causes, and demonstrate leadership globally.

Copies of the book were presented by Dr. Navera to Ambassador Medardo G. Macaraig and Consul General Santos, which will form part of the collection of Filipiniana books at the Sentro Rizal.

Dr. Navera, Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Centre for English Language Communication and a Fellow at Tembusu College, presented key insights from his 2025 Vibal Foundation publication of the same title. He discussed the historical roots of Filipinos’ fascination with beauty queens, women’s agency in the contested space of pageantry, and the role of fans in sustaining and reshaping pageant culture. He discussed the historical roots of Filipinos’ fascination with beauty queens, women’s agency in the contested space of pageantry, and the role of fans in sustaining and reshaping pageant culture. Dr. Navera also acknowledged the more complex and sometimes problematic aspects of pageantry, while noting that the enduring enthusiasm of pageant fans continues to shape conversations around the industry. 

Dr. Navera’s talk was followed by an open forum moderated by Ms. Dardanelleis Balisi-Lizaso, educator and storyteller,  wherein he shared insights into his creative process, reflected on emerging discussions surrounding pageantry, and offered personal perspectives on how the culture of pageantry continues to evolve.

In her closing remarks, the Embassy’s Gender and Development Focal Point Officer, Second Secretary and Consul Jhullie Anne A. Beniahan, noted that conversations such as the evening’s book talk contribute to deeper reflections on women’s leadership, representation, and empowerment. She also encouraged participants to continue supporting initiatives that advance gender equality within Filipino communities in Singapore and beyond.

Close to 50 creatives, academics, Filipino community leaders, and Embassy personnel attended the event, which concluded with a fellowship and salu-salo among its participants. /END