Binibining Pilipinas 2017 candidates officially announced

The Binibining Pilipinas pageant has announced the 40 candidates who will be vying for one of the national titles up for grabs at this year's pageant.

In a post on its Facebook page, the organization listed the following as the official candidates:

Ana Patricia Asturias
Leitz Camyll M. Ang
Jessica M. Ramirez
Dane Felisse R. Marasigan
Mae Lanie Chan
Arienne Louise Braga Calingo
Maria Gail Devora Tobes
Gabriela Patricia M. Ortega
Katarina Sonja A. Rodriguez
Joselle S. Mariano
Kristi Rose D. Cequeña
Rachel Peters
Maria Camille P. Manalo
Jennyline Carla F. Malpaya
Vanessa N. Saliba
Juliana M. Kapeundl
Ma. Bejieleen T. Nama
Thoreen D. Halvosen
Sarah Jireh C. Asido
Arah A. Salientes
Beatrice O. Valente
Mae Liezel J. Ramos
Larah Grace Lacap
Clarice Marion E. Villareal
Chanel Olive V. Thomas
Nelda C. Ibe
Christagale Borja
Ruffa Nava
Angelique Celine L. De Leon
Jamaica Elysse D. Ambal
Karla May R. Manongsong
Dindi Joy Pajares
Kimberly L. Pajares
Maria Angelica A. De Leon
Sirene Sutton
Charmaine F. Elima
Jehza Mae Huelar
Elizabeth Durado Clenci
Kristel N. Guelos
Sammie Anne L. Legaspi

Keen pageant watchers might recognize the names of Jehza Mae Huelar, who was 2nd runner-up in last year's pageant, and Miss World Philippines 4th Princess Rachel Peters.

They might also recognize the name Maria Angelica De Leon—a.k.a. Mariel De Leon, daughter of Christopher De Leon and Sandy Andolong. She was one of several celebrity offspring rumored to join this year's pageant. — BM, GMA News