Joselito Malig

Article (news)

Dyan Castillejo

ABS-CBN News

MANILA — More than 50 candidates took center stage at the first official event of the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 season, dubbed “The Reveal,” held today at City of Dreams Manila.Dressed in striking shades of pink and red, the delegates kicked off the festivities with a parade around the SM Mall of Asia complex, delighting pageant fans who gathered for a glimpse of this year’s aspirants. They then proceeded to City of Dreams Manila for the much-anticipated press presentation, where they walked the red carpet with confidence and poise, officially beginning their journey toward the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 crown.“Let this mark the beginning of a beautiful journey of a lifetime,” said Ara Arida, national director of Miss Universe Philippines.“As we formally open this year’s season, I invite everyone here to be part of something truly extraordinary—a celebration of excellence, glamour, purpose, and Filipino pride,” she added.The stage program featured a vibrant, Filipina-inspired production number that showcased local culture through vibrant colors and music. Sponsors, partners, and members of the media filled the ballroom, warmly applauding each candidate as they were introduced.A major highlight of the event was the announcement of a new selection format by Executive Vice President Voltaire Tayag. The revised system will incorporate greater public participation, allowing fans to vote during the preliminary swimsuit and evening gown competitions, as well as the closed-door interview segment. Public votes may help propel candidates into the semifinals.“We are introducing a new selection format that is intended to rally public support for the delegates, while also showcasing transparency every step of the way,” Tayag said.“We are bringing the journey closer to Filipinos by allowing them to have a significant say in every stage of the pageant.”Live voting will also be introduced during coronation night, alongside the addition of a wildcard slot. All voting will be conducted through an official partner app.Reigning Miss Universe 2025 third runner-up Ahtisa Manalo graced the event, sharing a heartfelt message as she prepares to pass on her crown.“I’m really sad kasi malapit ko na ma-pass ‘yung crown,” she said. “I can’t believe that it has been a year… but I’m excited for them to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”Her advice to the candidates: “Be prepared to have long nights and early days all the time. They’re going to have to do it for months.”Manalo’s presence and words of encouragement inspired the hopefuls as they embarked on the demanding yet rewarding road to the crown.A series of pre-pageant activities is set to begin in March, with the coronation night scheduled for May 2026. The winner will represent the Philippines at the 2026 Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November.

More than 50 candidates took center stage at the first official event of the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 season, dubbed “The Reveal,” held today at City of Dreams Manila.

More than 50 candidates took center stage at the first official event of the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 season, dubbed “The Reveal,” held today at City of Dreams Manila.

Miss Universe Philippines unveils 2026 candidates, introduces new format

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Miss Universe Philippines unveils 2026 candidates, introduces new format

Dyan Castillejo,

ABS-CBN News

Published Feb 17, 2026 01:19 AM PHT

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