The crowning of Bea Millan-Windorski as Miss Universe Philippines has reignited discussions about what constitutes an 'authentic' Filipino identity, particularly given her US upbringing.

The Philippines has crowned its newest Miss Universe candidate, Bea Millan-Windorski, with the country – known for its penchant for beauty pageants – preparing to send its latest representative to the global competition in November. The 23-year-old, who grew up in Wisconsin in the United States and is a history and international relations graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, stood out among seven final candidates last weekend with her winning answer. Asked why the Philippines was...