The short-haired Binibini

With the buzz on Ms. Jamaica’s refreshing look in the recently-concluded Miss Universe pageant, our curiosity is tingling on whatever happened to that unconventional beauty who joined Binibining Pilipinas last year—Camille Jensen Hirro, or CJ Hirro of the Kagandahang Flores camp.

CJ was considered a dark horse during the early stages of the screening. In casual clothes and poorly done makeup during the submission of application, her short do made her stand-out from all the girls of the KF camp that was with her at the time. Bloggers and photographers alike swarmed her and asked her questions, which, to the surprise of everyone, she quickly answered with undeniable wit. A political strategist, writer, painter, and runner, everyone was sure that she would add an interesting flavor to the 2014 Bb. Pilipinas pageant.

According to insiders, Venus Raj was one of her biggest supporters. We were told that Queen V, who was sporting a short do at the time, went out of her way to tell CJ that she’s happy that she passed the first few screenings.

We remember one panelist during one of the screenings asking her something to this effect: Do you think you are pageant material? To which, CJ answered: I don’t think I am pageant material, but I believe that I will be a make a good representation of the reinvention of the modern-day Filipina. My whole life, I invested in things that I know would make me a better person—education, character, and reputation. I am the kind of woman who believes that as long as her brain is bigger than her breasts—let me correct that—as long as my brain is sexier than the rest of my body, I can conquer anything. Maybe even the universe. We have long been ready for a short-haired woman icon. There’s Sen. Miriam, the late Cory Aquino, Ces Drilon, the list goes on. I think the better question now is whether or not you are ready for a short-haired beauty queen. Everyone was dumbfounded.

After her Bb. Pilipinas stint was cut short, CJ has since been seen in a Dove commercial, and some minor roles on teleseryes such as Trenderas on TV5 and Dream Dad on ABS-CBN. Checking on her Instagram account (cjhirro) she has been busy hosting events for Solaire, Castrol, DeWalt, BDO, and many more. She has also posted pictures from shoots with undisclosed details. I guess we will just have to wait and hope we get to see her showcase her intelligence and wit in more shows and projects. She has also been frequenting an orphanage called Cottolengo Filipino. And judging by the pictures on her Instagram, the visits to the orphanage aren’t sponsored. And while we’re at it, she also plays the piano ang sings very well!

With her unconventional look, her innate wit, and winning attitude, did we just pass off a chance at placing higher in international pageants?

Tell us what you think.

by Ton Cruz Jimenez III