House of Representatives to honor Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach next year

The House of Representatives will formally recognize and commend actress and model Pia Wurtzbach for winning the Miss Universe 2015 title when sessions resume in January next year, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said Tuesday.

In a text message, Belmonte said he wants the 26-year-old beauty queen to be recognized for winning the prestigious pageant, but added that the distinction to be bestowed on her has yet to be decided on.

“I plan to give [Wurtzbach recognition]. What exactly, we’ll take it up when Congress reconvenes. For sure we will honor her for her great achievement,” he said.

Sessions in Congress will resume on Jan. 19 after a month-long break for the holiday season. Legislative work in the House and Senate will adjourn on Feb. 6 to give way to the campaign period for the May 2016 elections.

On Monday, Wurtzbach ended the Philippines’ 42-year title drought in Miss Universe and became the third Filipina to win the crown after Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973.

Following Wurtzbach’s victory, ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Samuel Pagdilao Jr. filed House Resolution 2578 congratulating her for becoming the new Miss Universe.

Over the years, the House and Senate have commended Filipina beauty queens who have won prestigious international pageants.

In 2013, Megan Young received a commendation from the Senate and was conferred the Congressional Medal of Distinction by the House for becoming the first Filipina to win the Miss World pageant.

Other beauty queens commended by Congress include Miss Universe 2010 5th runner up Venus Raj, Miss Tourism International 2013 Angeli Dione Gomez, Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago, and Miss Earth 2014 Jamie Herrell. — BM, GMA News