Grand Santacruzan at the Araneta Center

Kath C. Eustaquio-Derla September 17, 2013 0

Date:  May 18
Venue:  Araneta Center
Photographer:  Bruce Casanova
Digital Marketing / Public Relations:  Katherine C. Eustaquio

Araneta Center Grand Santacruzan on May 18

 The winners of Binibining Pilipinas 2013 lead the line up of the much-awaited Araneta Center Grand Santacruzan that reels off on Saturday, May 18. Joining the queens are the candidates of the recently concluded Binibining Pilipinas pageant.

The Santacruzan is an iconic Filipino tradition that commemorates the search of the Holy Cross by Reyna Elena and her son, Emperor Constantine. The festive mode of thanksgiving of finding the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is replicated many times over in several parts of the country during the fiesta month of May. However, none compares to the pageantry and the overload of beautiful Binibinis of the Araneta Center Grand Santacruzan. The event has become a staple in the celebration of Flores de Mayo in the metropolis.

The joyful celebration is made more spectacular because of the ladies that are clad in gowns designed by leading Filipino couturiers. This year is even more special as the country’s premier beauty pageant celebrates its golden year. Some of the exquisite creations of these designers were worn by the Binibinis during the National Costume Competition of the Binibining Pilipinas Gold. Miss Universe 2012 1st runner up Janine Tugonon adds star value to the proceedings as this year’s Reyna Elena. 1981 Binibining Pilipinas International Peachy Sacasas-Veneracion is the Emperatriz.

A new highlight of this year’s Grand Santacruzan at the Araneta Center will be the “living rosary” that will be participated in by the Binibinis and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish’s pamayanan sagalas. This will serve as a fitting culmination to this majestic cultural activity featuring the fairest maidens of the land in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Children and members of the media were among that enjoyed balloons and treats from Krispy Kreme.

The Grand Santacruzan at the Araneta Center reels off at 4pm from the Gateway Park beside the Smart Araneta Coliseum.