This year, Miss Universe Philippines drew inspiration from the country’s many bodies of water. They made waves with extravagant ensembles, flooding the stage with color, purpose, and meaning. Among the 40 candidates who showcased their regions, these are MEGA’s Top 10 National Costumes.
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Albay City
Alexandra Krisha of Albay embodied the Reyna of Tabyos, inspired by the luminous tabyos fish of Lake Danao in Polangui, Albay. Designed by Art Don, the costume featured a winged silhouette that honored the protection and preservation of these ecosystems.
Cebu City
Another creation by Art Don, Cebu City’s Apriel Smith channeled the Queen of the Fluvial, complete with a crown, regal dress, and a dramatic backpiece resembling rippling sacred waters.
Dasmariñas
Inspired by Luzon’s mythical guardian of the seas, Tyra Jane Godino took to the stage in oceanic blue. The Dasmariñas representative embodied grace, power, and Philippine marine heritage through shimmering rhinestones, delicate seashells, and luminous pearls designed by Ash Garcia II.
Ilocos Norte
Charieze Lianne of Ilocos Norte made a grand entrance in a costume inspired by the Balangay boat, symbolizing voyagers who crossed oceans guided by the stars, wind, and waves. This marked Mark Castillo Manoguid’s debut on the Miss Universe Philippines National Costume stage—an impressive one, highlighted by intricate detail and artistry.
Iloilo Province
Dressed as the Pearl of Panay, Nicky Lynn floated on stage in an Alcoren Ahmed creation inspired by the diwal, or angel wing clams—a prized delicacy in the Philippines. A picture of elegance and creativity, Iloilo Province’s queen brought the costume’s artistry and craftsmanship to life.
La Union
La Union’s fan favorite stunned the crowd in a showgirl-esque costume by Axel Que, paying tribute to her hometown’s waves and the gentle voyagers of the sea. Woven between the fabric and pearl-like baubles was a story of resilience, belonging, and finding one’s way home.
Manila City
Manila’s Justine Beatrice Felizarta and designer Patrick Isorena drew inspiration from the historic Manila–Acapulco Galleon Trade, when the city served as a gateway of global commerce in the East. The gold bodice adorned with pearls and treasures, the 25-kilogram ship behind her, and ocean waves forming a mermaid silhouette honored sea routes that connected continents and cemented Manila’s status as the Pearl of the Orient.
Nueva Ecija
Inspired by Amphitrite, the ancient Greek goddess of the sea, Nueva Ecija’s Michelle Tantoco Burchell commanded the stage in a flowing, figure-hugging gown adorned with pearls and crystals that shimmered like light on water. Designer Vin Mantala ensured the soft fabric and draped sleeves moved like gentle waves, while a delicate crown inspired by a sailor’s hat lent the beauty queen a regal, oceanic presence.
Pampanga
Allyson Hetland honored Pampanga’s century-old fluvial traditions through her National Costume. Designer Sai Macapagal layered fabrics to mimic the Pampanga River and added texture using pinukpok, a traditional metalcraft technique—each detail telling a story of lasting heritage.
Quezon Province
Carrying her home, people, and purpose on stage, Quezon Province’s Patricia Ella Evangelista, alongside designer Uly Montenegro Marquez, captured the sea’s magic beneath the moonlight. Layers of iridescent blue and violet hand-layered fabric, a flowing skirt, elaborate shoulders, and intricate beadwork mirrored the sparkle of gentle waves.
Catch the Miss Universe Philippines Coronation Night live at SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Featured Image and Photos: NICKY LYNN, MISS UNIVERSE PH (via Instagram)
Frequently Asked Questions
This year’s national costumes drew inspiration from the Philippines’ diverse bodies of water, celebrating the country’s marine heritage, fluvial traditions, and iconic aquatic life through extravagant ensembles.
Representing Manila, her costume featured a 25-kilogram ship design, honoring the historic Manila–Acapulco Galleon Trade that once established the city as a gateway for global commerce.
Pampanga’s representative, Allyson Hetland, wore a costume utilizing “pinukpok,” a traditional metalcraft technique, to add unique texture and tell a story of the region’s lasting fluvial heritage.
Tyra Jane Godino of Dasmariñas channeled Luzon’s mythical guardian of the seas in an oceanic blue ensemble, adorned with shimmering rhinestones, pearls, and seashells to highlight marine heritage.
Charieze Lianne of Ilocos Norte wore a stunning Balangay-inspired costume, symbolizing the historic voyagers who traversed oceans using the stars, wind, and waves as their guide.
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