The prestigious Miss Universe Philippines 2025 pageant concluded on May 2, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Metro Manila. The event showcased the nation’s top beauty queens competing for the coveted title, with Maria Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon emerging as the winner. Ahtisa, who previously held the titles of Binibining Pilipinas International 2018 and Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024, will now represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand.
A Night of Glamour and Empowerment
The coronation night was a spectacle of elegance and empowerment, with 66 contestants vying for the title. The event’s theme, “Love Above All,” resonated throughout the evening, highlighting the contestants’ advocacy, intelligence, and poise. The pageant featured various segments, including swimwear, evening gown presentations, and the highly anticipated Q&A round, where Ahtisa Manalo’s articulate responses and confident demeanour set her apart from the competition.
Notable Contestants and Special Awards
While Ahtisa Manalo clinched the top honour, other contestants also garnered recognition for their exceptional performances. Teresita Ssen Marquez of Muntinlupa secured the 1st Runner-Up position, while Yllana Marie Aduana of Siniloan was named 2nd Runner-Up. The Top 6 finalists included Gabriella Mai Carballo of Cebu City, Chelsea Lovely Fernandez of Sultan Kudarat, and Maria Katrina Llegado of Taguig. Special awards were presented to various contestants, acknowledging their unique attributes and contributions to the pageant.
Ahtisa Manalo’s Journey to the Crown
Ahtisa Manalo’s path to the Miss Universe Philippines crown was marked by resilience and determination. After finishing as 2nd Runner-Up in Miss Universe Philippines 2024, she was appointed to represent the Philippines at Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024, where she placed in the Top 10. Ahtisa’s previous international experience includes representing the Philippines at Miss International 2018, where she finished as 1st Runner-Up. Her consistent performances in national and international pageants have solidified her reputation as a formidable beauty queen.
The Role of the New Leadership
The 2025 edition of the pageant was the first under the leadership of Chavit Singson and Ariella Arida. Their vision for the pageant emphasized inclusivity and empowerment, aiming to provide a platform for women to showcase their talents and advocacies. The leadership’s commitment to these values was evident throughout the competition, fostering an environment where contestants could express themselves authentically.
Looking Ahead: Miss Universe 2025
With Ahtisa Manalo’s victory, the Philippines has high hopes for the upcoming Miss Universe 2025 pageant. Scheduled for November 21, 2025, in Thailand, the competition will see Ahtisa representing the nation on the global stage. Her extensive pageant experience and advocacy-driven approach position her as a strong contender for the international title.
Conclusion
The Miss Universe Philippines 2025 pageant was a celebration of beauty, intelligence, and empowerment. Ahtisa Manalo’s crowning moment not only marked a personal achievement but also highlighted the evolving landscape of Filipino pageantry, where advocacy and authenticity are celebrated. As the nation looks forward to the Miss Universe 2025 competition, Ahtisa’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring beauty queens and advocates alike.
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