Mc Richard Paglicawan
In a surprising twist of events, it appears that Herlene Budol’s departure from the pageant world might not be as final as previously thought, as she recently hinted at a potential return.
The beloved comedienne, known for her vibrant personality and comedic flair, was a guest on the GMA Public Affairs show “Dapat Alam Mo.” This show utilizes a lie detector test to encourage guests to respond candidly to various questions. During her appearance, Budol’s response to a question about her future in pageantry drew attention and speculation.
When asked if she was still contemplating participating in another pageant, Budol hesitated for a moment before replying with a cautious “maybe.” She went on to elaborate on her previous announcement about stepping back from pageants, revealing that she is keeping the door open to represent the Philippines as the Miss Philippines Tourism 2023 titleholder.
Organizers have sought to clarify the situation, stating that Budol’s newly acquired crown carries “no contractual obligation” tied to any specific pageant. This clarification comes in light of rumors circulating that she might be tapped to represent the Philippines in the upcoming Miss Tourism World.
Elaborating on her apparent change of heart, Budol explained, “Kasi po ‘yung sinabi ko po, ‘yung I’m signing off… wala pa pong franchise na nakukuha doon sa international, sa paglalabanan ko. After po noon, lalaban pa rin naman po ako sa international.”
While awaiting the opportunity to grace the international stage, Budol expressed her intent to focus on her ongoing projects and personal growth.
“Baka magpahinga po ako at pagalingin ko na lang po ‘yung sarili ko, mag-focus po muna ako sa kung anong meron ako ngayon,” she shared.
In a recent vlog, Budol initially announced her departure from the pageant circuit, acknowledging that she might not possess all the attributes needed to represent the Philippines on a global scale.
“Nakakatatlong pageant na po ako pero hindi pa rin po puwede. Ibig sabihin, huwag na natin pong ipilit. Ibig sabihin po non, ako po si Herlene Nicole Budol na nagsasabing, ‘Sorry, Pilipinas, this is my last pageant,'” she declared at that time.
Budol entered the pageant scene last year as part of the Binibining Pilipinas national pageant, where she secured the prestigious first runner-up position. Several months later, under the guidance of her then-manager Wilbert Tolentino, she earned the opportunity to represent the Philippines in Miss Planet Philippines. However, she withdrew from Miss Planet International in Uganda due to uncertainties with the organizers.
A year later, Budol participated in the inaugural Miss Grand Philippines, clinching the title of Miss Philippines Tourism. Despite her earlier announcement of stepping away from the pageant limelight, her recent remarks have ignited speculation about her potential return, creating further anticipation around her evolving journey in the pageant world.
