The controversial beauty queen Janina San Miguel backs out from Miss World 2008 pageant.

This year’s Bb. Pilipinas-World Janina San Miguel has decided to quit because of the sudden death of her grandfather. She was supposed to be the Philippine representative to the upcoming Miss World Beauty Pageant to be held in Johannesburg, South Africa on December 14.

Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) issued an official statement Monday night as follows:

“The untimely demise of her grandfather, among other personal reasons, has caused her undue stress, thus hindering her from fulfilling her duties for the said title… BPCI wishes to express its gratitude to Ms. San Miguel for this act of graciousness and concern for the country. They also wish her well in her future endeavors.”

This year’s crowd favorite Danielle Castano, who happened to be first runner-up, will take over Janina’s duties as Bb. Pilipinas-World. Pageant enthusiasts were disappointed earlier this year when Danielle was not crowned as one of the three winners. But since she placed first runner-up, she will replace Janina as our representative in the upcoming Miss World pageant.

It’s interesting to note that 9 years ago, a similar thing happened. Mirriam Quiambao was only first runner-up at that time and became a replacement for the reigning Bb. Pilipinas Universe. From being first runner-up in Bb. Pilipinas, she ended up winning first runner-up in Miss Universe 1999. Will the same thing happen to Danielle? Or even win the very first Miss World crown for the country? Let’s keep our fingers crossed.