Looking regal in her black long gown, Brenna Cassandra Gamboa was adjudged Best in Long Gown in the recently concluded Miss Philippines-Earth 2011 Long Gown Competition held in Calapan City.

Gamboa, who represents the Filipino Community of US-East Coast, looked radiant in her evening gown designed by Sidney Eculla.

Forty-eight candidates in their elegant gowns created by some of the country’s top fashion designers sashayed down the catwalk on May 6 at the Alfonso Umali Sr. Gymnasium before a distinguished panel of judges and much to the delight of Calapeños.

Hot on Gamboa’s heels was Cebu City’s Muriel Adrienne Orais, who placed 1st runner-up in an exquisite gown design by Furne One-Amato Couture. Jaine Hidalgo from the Milaor Municipality placed 2nd runner-up in an eye-catching white number designed by John Herrera.

The Miss Friendship Award was also handed out that night, and this year’s friendliest, as voted by the candidates themselves, was Norella Nacis from the Municipality of Sto. Tomas, La Union.

Tension filled the evening soon after the special awards were handed out as Miss Earth executive director Cathy Untalan called out the names of the candidates who still have a shot for the Miss Philippines-Earth crown.

It was a heart-thumping moment when only 10 candidates were left standing on center stage, and much to everyone’s surprise, Untalan announced that only eight, instead of 10, will bid farewell to the competition.

The event also marked the first of a series of eliminations that will determine the final 10 candidates who will compete for the coveted title. At the preliminary long gown competition, 40 candidates made it to the first cut.

Those whose journey to the Miss Philippines-Earth crown unfortunately came to an end were Marde Rose Enriquez of Calamba City, Cari-DawnCampbell of Fil.Central USA, Honey Claire Arranguez of Davao City, CristaJuanico of the Municipality of Libungan-North Cotabato, Czshevinah Alejandro of Lipa City, Princess Jennifer Iñosa of San Pedro City and Caraleigh Ico of the Municipality of Sapian-Capiz.