Will the 2019 Bb. batch produce a Catriona Gray?

Even as she is “reluctant” and “feeling emotional” about giving up her 2018 Miss Universe Philippines crown in tomorrow’s pageant at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Catriona Gray can continue to bask in her reign as 2018 Miss Universe until her successor is chosen not yet announced where and when.

Catriona came home for the Big Dome event and, with 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach (and the 40 Bb. hopefuls), to grace the Miss Universe Philippines Charity Fashion Gala at Marriott Hotel last Tuesday, showcasing the collection of designers Albert Andrada, Rhett Eala, Michael Leyva, Ito Curata, Jot Losa, Avel Bacudio, Cherry Veric and Martin Bautista. Proceeds go to chosen foundations of Catriona (Young Focus) and Pia (Love Yourself).

On Friday, June 14, Catriona will be at the media launch of Smart Signature which she is endorsing.

Meanwhile, at tomorrow night’s 56th Bb. pageant, six winners led by Miss Universe-Philippines will be chosen, together with Bb. Pilipinas-International, Bb. Pilipinas-Intercontinental, Bb. Pilipinas-Supranational, Bb. Pilipinas-Globe and Bb. Pilipinas-Grand International.

Here are the “traditional” most-likely picks of Funfare’s “beauty expert” Felix Manuel. (Note: It is not meant to influence the independent-minded.) Unlike in previous years, the ladies are wearing sashes of their hometowns instead of numbers.

1. Talisay, Cebu ­— Gazini Ganados, 23;

2, Daraga, Albay — Julia Saubier, 24;

3. Masbate — Hannah Arnold, 23;

4. Bataan — Bea Patricia Magtanong, 24;

5. Pasig City — Maria Andrea Abesamis, 27;

6. Negros Occidental — Vickie Rushton, 26;

7. Cebu — Samantha Ashley Lo, 26;

8. Sorsogon — Maria Isabela Galeria, 20;

9. Palawan — Samantha Bernardo, 26;

10. Laguna — Leren Mae Bautista. 26;

11. Pampanga — Emma Tiglao, 24;

12. Mandaue City, Cebu — Ilene de Vera, 23;

13. Caloocan — Joanna Rose Tolledo, 25;

14. Puerto Princesa — Jessarie Dumaguing, 23;

15. Malabon — Jessica Marasigan, 25;

16. Polangui, Albay — Marie Sherry Ann Tormes, 27;

17. Maguindanao — Resham Saeed, 25;

18. La Union — Kimberle Mae Penchon, 26;

19. Zamboanga — April Short, 24; and

20. Marikina — Marianne Marquez, 26.