While the final round of the Miss Universe Philippines competition always leaves room for surprises, a few contenders have already carved out their place as frontrunners. These standout women dominated the preliminaries, proving they have what it takes to make it to the finals. As the competition reaches its peak, MEGA presents its lineup of the top five powerful contenders competing for the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 title.
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Yllana Marie Aduana, Siniloan, Laguna
With four national titles and an international crown under her belt, Yllana Marie Aduana entered the competition as one of the most seasoned contenders this year. As Miss Earth-Air 2023, she has proven her ability to rise through global ranks with poise, eloquence, and purpose. A licensed medical technologist and sustainability advocate, Yllana brings both substance and strategy to the Miss Universe Philippines stage. Come coronation night on May 2, her experience and clarity of vision could easily secure her a spot in the Top 5.

Chelsea Fernandez, Sultan Kudarat
Representing Sultan Kudarat, Chelsea Fernandez brings with her a strong foundation of pageant training and titles, having previously held the crowns of Miss Philippines-Water 2019 and Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2022. Her pageant exposure has shaped her into a confident and consistent performer—someone who knows how to make each moment on stage count. With her graceful stage presence and competitive edge, Chelsea is well-positioned to advance to the Top 5 on finals night.

Ahtisa Manalo, Quezon Province
Few contestants arrive with a résumé as impressive as Ahtisa Manalo. A former Miss International 2018 runner-up, Miss Universe Philippines 2024 2nd Runner-Up, and a Miss Cosmo 2024 Top 10 Finalist, Ahtisa brings a rare blend of elegance and preparedness. She’s already made waves on both national and international stages, and her return to Miss Universe Philippines marks a comeback that fans and judges alike are watching closely. If her preliminary performance is any indication, Ahtisa could very well claim a Top 5 spot on May 2.

Winwyn Marquez, Muntinlupa
Teresita Ssen “Winwyn” Marquez is no stranger to the spotlight—or the crown. The first Asian to win Reina Hispanoamericana in 2017, she returns to the national stage with a legacy built on achievement, purpose, and enduring appeal. As one of this year’s frontrunners, her experience and commanding presence could be the key to securing a standout finish when the competition reaches its final stretch.

Katrina Llegado, Taguig
Katrina Llegado’s comeback to Miss Universe Philippines reflects a quiet tenacity that has defined her pageant journey. From her runner-up finish in 2022 to a Top 5 placement at Reina Hispanoamericana 2019, she’s steadily built a reputation for her polished presentation and unwavering focus. Her refined approach and composed demeanor could be the key to securing a standout finish when the competition reaches its final stretch.

Photos and Featured Image: MISS UNIVERSE PHILIPPINES, YLLANA ADUANA, CHELSEA FERNANDEZ (via Instagram)