Carousel Productions begins search for Miss Philippines Earth 2025 delegates

 

Miss Philippines Earth 2023 Yllana Marie Aduana crowns Irha Mel Inutan Alfeche of Davao del Sur as Miss Philippines Earth 2024 on May 11, 2024.

Screengrab from Miss Philippines Earth YouTube channel

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

April 27, 2025 | 12:20pm

MANILA, Philippines — With most of the national organizations looking for their new queens, Carousel Productions is, likewise, beginning the quest for its new set of environmental guardians.

In a social media post, the organization wrote, "Are you the silver lining of our country? The search is on! Be part of the much-awaited milestone of Miss Philippines Earth 2025!"

To qualify, applicants must be:

Filipino, 18 to 26 years old

At least a High School graduate and of good moral standing

Endowed with beauty in face, figure, and form

Unmarried, single, and has never given birth

At least 5 feet and 4 inches in height

Good in communication skills and possess concern and knowledge on the environment

Applicants must also provide the following requirements:

A completely filled out and signed application form (must be in Word document format and for immediate completion)

A certified true copy of her birth certificate

An authenticated copy of High School or College diploma

Latest hi-resolution digital photos 

Interested delegates can download the form or get in touch with its secretariat. 

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 names Boracay swimsuit challenge finalists

 

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 announced the Top 8 finalists of the swimsuit showcase in Boracay

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The 65 remaining delegates at this year's Miss Universe Philippines competition were welcomed by fans and supporters in the paradisiacal island of Boracay over the weekend.

During the swimwear showcase, the candidates wore identical Pina Beauty capes over their monokinis and/or bikinis. They gamely danced to the beat and worked the short runway with their pasarela skills.

Eight delegates were named Aqua Boracay Angels, while 13 others were named Arrete Angels of Tagaytay.

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 announced the Top 8 finalists of the swimsuit showcase last Saturday night. The standouts were:

Yllana Marie Aduana (Siniloan, Laguna)

Ma. Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon Province)

Teresita Ssen "Wynwin" Marquez (Muntinlupa)

Gwendoline Meliz Soriano (Baguio)

Amanda Russo (Pasay)

Katrina Llegado (Taguig)

Valerie Claire West (Ifugao), and 

Gabrielle Mai Carballo (Cebu City)

The Miss Universe Philippines 2025 coronation night will unfold on May 2, 6 p.m., in SM Mall of Asia Arena. The "Puksaan" is nearing its culmination. Stay tuned!

Miss Universe Philippines-Pasig conducts 2025 pageant preliminaries

FASHION AND BEAUTY

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

January 30, 2025 | 9:24am

MANILA, Philippines — The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Pasig organization, through its city director Cezarah Discaya and committee members Rochelle Romero and Ara Mina, oversaw the preliminary competition of its 2025 edition at the Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

The 18 official delegates donned their Terno of choice, apart from wearing identical beachwear ensemble, plus a sponsor segment with the ladies wearing Smilee tees handpainted by a local Pasig artist.

"As a Pasigueña myself, I want to empower more Pasigueñas to reach for their dreams," encouraged MUPH National Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee. The architect-beauty queen also opened her Beauty Queen Philippines outlet store at the 5th level of the Shang Mall.

Hosted by Jasper Tiongson and Giana Llanes, with guest appearances from Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo, Miss Supranational 2023 1st runner-up Pauline Amelinckx, and Miss Universe Philippines 2024 4th runner-up Christi Lynn McGarry, the delegates each received P20,000 at the close of the show.

The winner and her runners-up will receive P250,000, P125,000, P100,000, P75,000 and P50,000 cash prizes, in descending order.

The Miss Universe Philippines-Pasig 2025 coronation night will be held at the Metro Tent inside Metrowalk in Ortigas Center on January 31 at 7 p.m. 

Miss Universe 2024 semifinalists forecast part 2: 2 more Filipinas could make the cut

 Official Miss Universe portraits of Miss Universe New Zealand 2024 Victoria Vincent (left) and Miss Universe Bahrain 2024 Shereen Ahmed. Miss Universe Organization

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

November 12, 2024 | 10:28am

MANILA, Philippines — The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) withdrew Miss Panama from the competition, after its evaluation team investigated an altercation she had with her roommate, Miss Dominican Republic. Internet users are shocked by the outcome.

Anyway, here's the second part of our forecast. Since the first cut is composed of 30 lucky delegates, there are more than 10 we've included in this second list.

Indonesia - Since Frederika Cull's Top 10 finish in 2019, this Moslem state has been bringing its A-game to the competition.

Finland - They won the 1st crown with Armi Kuusela in 1952, and then again in 1975 with Anne Marie Pohtamo. Could this be the year of their third crown?

New Zealand - actor/model Franki Russell was supposed to be the Kiwi state's representative until the MUO disqualified her on impropriety charges. Crowned winner Victoria Vincent replaces her as official delegate to Mexico.

Vietnam - An emerging contender after H'hen Nie's fabulous Top 5 finish in 2018, with eventual winner Catriona Gray, the Viets have been giving their all since then; especially in the online polls that resulted in automatic placement. 

Canada - With a former Miss Canada in the judging panel, motivation could be high for Ashley Callingbull.

Bahrain - Delegate Shereen Ahmed observed that the last time an Arab woman won was in 1971. This could be the year for another Arab woman to win the crown.

USA - Unless this is like 2010, the country that formerly owned the MUO was a default placer. Would that luck still hold true now?

Australia - "The Land Down Under" won in 1972 and 2004 with Kerry Anne Wells and Jennifer Hawkins, respectively. Will this year be their third?

India - Their third crown was won in 2021 with Haarnaz Sandhu. Will this year also bring luck to their representative, Rhea Singha?

Colombia - if there was a country who mostly placed in recent editions like the USA, it would be Colombia. They send consistent delegates year-in and year-out.

Brazil - Like Colombia, Brazilians also take to heart their selection process; combing the Northern and Southern territories for their annual winner.

Turks & Caicos - This two-island state in the Caribbean made it to the Top 10 with Bb. Pilipinas Universe 1987 Pebbles de Asis in Singapore. Will they be lucky again in their comeback to the pageant?

Zimbabwe - Pageant veteran Sakbile Dube's journey has led her to the Universe stage. She's one of the strongest contenders from the African continent.

Dominican Republic - Since Amelia Vega's victory in 2003, this Central American nation has been sending glamazons who are not out to play, but to slay!

Cuba - Their return to the pageant after 57 years should mean something! Besides, their delegate, Marianela Ancheta, is a strong contender.

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray will be back as show commentator for the third time. Movie/TV actor Mario Lopez will reprise his role as pageant host, with 'Conductores' Jacqueline Bracamontes, Danilo Carrera, Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza, Miss Universe 2020 1st runner-up Julia Gamma, and Carlos Adyan. 

Catch the preliminary competition on November 14 (November 15, Manila time). Stay tuned!

Analysis: Miss Universe 2024 semifinalists forecast

 

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo (left) with Miss Universe Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakrajutatip in Mexico.

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

November 6, 2024 | 12:10pm

MANILA, Philippines — Days after the Miss Universe 2024 delegates arrived in Mexico City for the 73rd pageant edition, we saw some girls who we think would place in the semifinal round.

We simply based our choices from their headshots and videos shared on social media, as well as observations on how they interacted with fellow delegates, the organizers, and fans they've come in contact with.

This is a two-part series so we begin with the first 10:

Philippines - Chelsea Manalo is the first Filipino winner with Afro-American lineage. That by itself is a highlight in Philippine pageant history. And coupled with a kind heart and sunny disposition, the beauteous Bulakeña has her sights on the country's fifth crown.

Peru - Chelsea's roommate, Tatiana Calmell, is out to finish some unfinished business. Her compatriots are of the belief that Janick Maceta was robbed of the crown in 2020.

Thailand - Opal Chuangsri, like her predecessor, is rumored to be a favorite among pageant organizers.

Puerto Rico - The Philippines' Gloria Diaz crowned their first winner in 1970, Marasol Malaret. After a near-win in 2019, with Madison Anderson, this state in the Bermuda Triangle has been gunning for its sixth crown.

Venezuela - After the USA, this country has the most number of wins at seven. Like all powerhouse countries, they too are aiming for their eighth.

Denmark - Victoria Theilvig visited Mexico City weeks before the official arrival dates, prompting netizens to assume that she's the chosen one.

South Africa - Speaking of inclusivity, Mia le Roux is the first deaf winner in her country's pageant history. She's up against many other "firsts" in this Mexico edition.

Mexico - They're not only the host, they also want to win the crown like what Denise Quiñones did in 2001 - with Puerto Rico winning the home court.

Egypt - Logina Salah may suffer from Vitiligo (Psoriasis) but her skin condition will not hinder her chances of placing in the competition.

France - presenting the most glamorous national finals annually, 2024 winner Indira Ampiot has favorable qualities that other delegates could only wish they had.

Catch the second part of this forecast. Coming soon!

Watch the 73rd Miss Universe final show on November 16 (November 17, Manila time) via the A2Z Kapamilya channel.

Miss Universe announces 2024 judges, selection committee

Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco with Bollywood star Malaika Arora at his fashion extravaganza for the launch of the first ever fashion residences FashionZ by Danube Properties in partnership with Fashion TV.

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

November 5, 2024 | 9:23am

MANILA, Philippines — The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has announced the names of the men and women who will comprise the judging panel during the Miss Universe 2024 final show in Mexico City.

They are:

Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco 

women empowerment advocate Gabriela Gonzalez 

art collector Gary Nader 

Austrian entrepreneur Eva Cavalli

star builder Emilio Estefan

Miss Universe Canada 2020 Nova Stevens

Colombian actress Fariana, and

celebrity dentist Camila Guiribitey

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray will return as commentator, while actor Mario Lopez will reprise his role as pageant host. Miss Universe 2022 American-Filipino R'bonney Gabriel, on the other hand, will join the Voice for Change project judging panel.

The 73rd Miss Universe competition will unfold on November 16 (November 17, Manila time) in Arena CDMX in Mexico City.

Outgoing queen Sheynnis Palacios Cornejo of Nicaragua will crown her successor. Catch the nationwide broadcast of the coronation night over A2Z Kapamilya channel. Stay tuned!

Lakbay Magazine officially launched

 

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Lakbay Magazine, a premiere bi-monthly publication dedicated to the vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors of the country, and the world, was officially launched through an intimate ceremony at its office in Lucky Chinatown Hotel.

"We are thrilled to launch Lakbay, a publication that embodies the spirit of Philippine tourism and hospitality. Our goal is to showcase the beauty, culture, and unique experiences that our country offers; inspiring both local and international travelers to explore and appreciate the Philippine destinations more," enthused Enrico Sy, chairman of the magazine's board of directors.

Manila vice mayor Yul Servo, Taytay vice mayor Pia Cabral, and Department of Tourism's accreditation officer-in-charge Dmitriv Ivannovich were among the dignitaries who graced the occasion.

"The support we have received from the hotel industry and business sector is truly heartwarming. Today, we celebrate not just the launch of a magazine but also the continuous growth of our country's tourism industry," said Lualhati Fausto, executive editor and founder of Lakbay.

Lakbay Magazine aims to be the leading source of information and inspiration for travelers and industry professionals by offering insightful articles, captivating photography, and comprehensive guides to the best destinations, accommodations, and experiences in and around the Philippines' 7,147 islands.

How to vote for the next Miss Universe Philippines 2024 winner

 Miss Universe Philippines 2024 coronation night poster

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

May 22, 2024 | 9:07am

MANILA, Philippines — Have you been a member of a selection committee or a judging panel?

Those who have will tell you how difficult it is to weigh your options to arrive at the best results.

Well, tonight is your chance to be the 11th member of the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2024 judging panel.

In a message on social media, the MUPH Organization wrote, "You can be the 11th judge! Fans everywhere can now vote for their favorite Miss Universe Philippines 2024 finalists and help increase their chances of getting closer to the crown.

"From the Top 20, vote for your favorite to enter the Top 10. And from the Top 10, you can vote again to move up your favorite to the Top 5. From the Top 5, vote one last time for the one you think deserves to be Miss Universe Philippines 2024!

"This is exactly how it feels to be a judge in Miss Universe Philippines! The power to choose our next queen is in YOUR hands!"

Cast your votes using the Miss Universe Philippines app.

Catch the finale later tonight in SM Mall of Asia Arena. Or, you may opt to watch the Livestream via EmpirePH's channel on YouTube. All others can watch the final show on Sunday, May 26, through a delayed telecast on GMA.

Davaoeña educator wins Miss Philippines Earth 2024 crown

Miss Philippines Earth 2023 Yllana Marie Aduana crowns Irha Mel Inutan Alfeche of Davao del Sur as Miss Philippines Earth 2024 on May 11, 2024.

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

May 12, 2024 | 9:22am

MANILA, Philippines — Irha Mel Inutan Alfeche, an educator from Matanao, Davao del Sur, bested all other Earth warriors to be crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2024 winner. She was crowned by outgoing queen Yllana Marie Aduana, who is currently enjoying her reign as Miss Earth Air 2023.

The members of the elemental court are Feliz Clareianne Recentes of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte (Air), Samantha Dana Bug-os of Baco, Oriental Mindoro (Water), Kia Labiano of Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay (Fire) and Ira Patricia Malaluan of Batangas (Eco-Tourism). Malaluan was also named Miss Hana earlier in the evening.

The five other ladies who made it to the Top 10 were Ansha Lichelle Jones (Zamboanga City), Victoria Johnson (Filipino Community of Brandon, Florida), Sam Samara (Makati City), Mary Joanne Fuentes (Maramag, Bukidnon) and Chaoncy Rich Azucena (Balungon, Bukidnon). They were all declared runners-up to the title. This year, Mindanaoan delegates made good placements throughout the competition.

The five other delegates who made it to the Top 15 were Marinell Salvador (Cabanatuan), Rin Rin Rances Raz (Lubao, Nueva Ecija), Jeyzel Ann Reyes (Filipino Community of Rome, Italy), Reyna Ruhen (Aborlan, Palawan) and Kristel Codas (Iligan City).

The coronation ceremony opened with the reigning queen and delegates dancing to a choreographed production number decked in identical Talaandig traditional dresses. The cultural performers representing the various Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Bukidnon showcased the province's unity in diversity.

Hosted by perennial host James Deakin with Miss Earth 2008 Karla Paula Henry, the Miss Philippines Earth 2024 coronation night was streamed from Talakag, Bukidnon, through Carousel Productions' channel on YouTube.

Outgoing elemental queens Kerri Reilly (Air), Jemima Joy Zabala (Water), Sha'uri Livori (Fire) and Athena Claire Auxillo (Eco-Tourism) crowned their respective successors.

Next year, Miss Earth will be celebrating its silver year anniversary in both local and international pageants. It would be another milestone for the platform as it continues with its campaign on environmental conservation and protection, as well as with its partnership with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals.

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 bares Top 5 swimsuit challenge winners

 

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

May 6, 2024 | 8:56am

MANILA, Philippines — A fortnight ago, the 53 official delegates of the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 pageant competed at the swimsuit preliminaries in Acqua Boracay resort.

Eight Acqua Angels and 12 Arete Ambassadors were chosen during the event.

Early this week, the Miss Universe Philippines Organization announced the Top 5 winners from the swimsuit challenge online poll. They are:

Dia Mate (Cavite)

Patricia Bianca Tapia (Hawaii)

Alexie Mae Brooks (Iloilo)

Ma. Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon Province), and

Janet Hammond (Southern California)

The Miss Universe Philippines Organization, in a social media post, wrote, "Meet the Top 5 of our very first challenge - the Miss Universe Philippines swimsuit challenge! The winners were determined purely by votes. So remember to vote for your favorites in all our challenges!

"The top winner in every challenge will get an automatic spot at the finals. #BayanihanVote for your favorite. Keep voting and support your delegate. Be sure to make the right choice! In case of a tie, MUPh will determine the winning delegate."

To vote, simply download the Miss Universe Philippines app. Next, go to the Challenge Vote tab. Then, vote for the one you think should win the challenge. In three weeks time, we will know who the winners will be, in both minor and major titles.

The 2024 Miss Universe Philippines coronation night will unfold on May 22, 8 p.m., in Mall of Asia Arena. 

FASHION AND BEAUTY

Philippines' Chantal Schmidt from Cebu bags Miss Eco International 2024 1st runner-up, special awards

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

April 30, 2024 | 10:02am

MANILA, Philippines — Angelina Usanova of Ukraine was crowned Miss Eco International 2024 at the close of the coronation rites in Triumph Luxury Hotel in Cairo last April 28.

Philippine delegate Chantal Elise Schmidt was proclaimed as 1st runner-up. The Cebuana beauty queen was not feeling well during the preliminaries. She, however, managed to snag the Best in Evening Gown, despite her predicament. On coronation night, she was also awarded the Best National Costume.

Nikita Dani of Canada was named 2nd runner-up, and Fabiane Goia of Brazil, who won the People's Choice Award was 3rd runner-up; while Valerie Avril of Indonesia, who won the Best Resort Wear Catwalk, was proclaimed 4th runner-up.

In a social media post, the MEI Organization wrote, "Touching down at the Miss Eco International finals! Excited to crown the next eco warrior to carry forward our mission of protecting our planet!"

The recipients of the other special.awards were China (Miss Talent), USA (Miss Social Media), Venezuela (Best Eco Dress), and Thailand (Top Model).

This year's selection committee was composed of Nhala Khaled, Shaden Glal, Sara Wanas, Dr. Cherif Aly Abdelal, Cozan Elmaghrabi, Heba Elsisi, Patricia Pellar, Gizzele Mandy, Dr. Hossam Tahseen, Miss Eco International 2019 Amy Tinie, and Dr. Mohamed Negm.

To date, the Philippines has won the Eco International crown twice: in 2018, with Cynthia Tomalla, and in 2022 with Kathleen Paton. This is the third time the Philippines won second place, including that of Kelly Day (2020) and Maureen Montagne (2019).

Usanova was crowned by her predecessor Nguyen Thanh Ha of Vietnam. Hosted by Nancy Magdy, the 2024 Miss Eco International final show was beamed live to a global audience through the MEI channel on YouTube.

FASHION AND BEAUTY: Binibining Pilipinas 2024 calls for aspirants

 Binibining Pilipinas 2023 queens: Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2023 Anna Valencia Lakrini, Binibining Pilipinas 2023 1st runner-up Katrina Anne Johnson and Binibining Pilipinas 2023 2nd runner-up Atasha Reign Parani.

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

March 10, 2024 | 2:33pm

MANILA, Philippines — Binibining Pilipinas, the pageant, will be celebrating its 60th anniversary this 2024 pageant season. Interested aspirants still have two weeks to submit their applications.

In a social media post, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) reminded applicants of the requirements they need to furnish the organization upon submission of their respective applications. These include:

An accomplished application form (Applicants can download the forms via www.bbpilipinas.com)

Proof of citizenship, whether they are: a.) Natural-born citizens (born in the Philippines), b.) Balikbayans who re-acquired Philippine citizenship under R.A. 9225, or c.) Natural-born citizens born outside the Philippines

Residency (Has not resided outside the Philippines or has resided outside the Philippines)

High School or college diploma. For graduate applicants, a copy of her transcript of records is also needed.

Medical certificates for both physical and mental health well-being

Certificate of good moral character given by school, church, and/or professional organization

Photo set cards (one close-up and one full body)

A certified true copy of birth certificate

Applicants may submit their documents to the BPCI Office at the 8th floor of the Aurora Tower, along Gen. Malvar St. in Araneta City on or before March 22, 2024.

Outgoing queens Binibining Pilipinas International Angelica Lopez and Binibining Pilipinas Anna Valencia Lakrini will crown their successors at the culmination of the 60th coronation night ceremonies in early June. Stay tuned!

RELATED: 60 delegates for Binibining Pilipinas' 60th year

FASHION AND BEAUTY Miss Supranational 2024 announces finals date, venue

From left: Reigning Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera of Ecuador; Alethea Ambrosio, who was crowned The Miss Philippines 2023, was proclaimed Miss Philippines Supranational

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

The Miss Supranational Organization (MSO) has announced the dates and venue of the Miss and Mister Supranational 2024 competitions.

The male pageant will unfold on July 4th, while the distaff competition unravels on July 6th. Both pageants will take place in Malopolska.

In a statement, published on social media, MSO president Gerhard Parzuthka von Lipinsky wrote, "We are excited to share this special year for us with the candidates - who will represent their countries at the Miss/Mister Supranational 2024 experience - and to our license holders, friends, viewers, and supporters from all over the world. The beautiful region of Malopolska will once again welcome all our candidates with true Polish hospitality."

Alethea Ambrosio, who was crowned The Miss Philippines 2023, was proclaimed Miss Philippines Supranational, while Mister Pilipinas Worldwide 2023 winner Brandon Espiritu was also proclaimed Mister Pilipinas Supranational by the Miss/Mister Philippines national organization. Both titleholders will fly to Poland's Festival of Beauty in early July.

Reigning Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera of Ecuador will crown the 15th titleholder at the culmination of the crowning ceremonies, while reigning Mister Supranational Ivan Alvarez of Spain will crown the pageant's eighth winner.