It’s that time of the year again. Pageant season is upon us at last, and all roads are leading to the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Coronation Night on May 2, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena.
Photo: Khalil Gib Estraño, MJ Suayan
Filipinos are no strangers to the world of pageantry. Globally recognized as a “pageant powerhouse,” the Philippines has long become home to some of the strongest candidates who’ve dominated many prestigious competitions over the years. It goes without saying that Filipina beauty queens are in a league of their own, fearlessly raising our flag and uplifting our voices with grace on global stages.
This year’s MUPH candidates are giving it their all to bring Pinoy pride to pageant fans in every region. We’re tuning in to these purposeful ladies as they represent the country to the best of their abilities—from their wise words to their meaningful advocacies, and most notably, their next-level national costumes.
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National costumes on MUPH have always served as shining examples of our culture and history. It’s no surprise that they make headlines every year for their sheer extravagance, intricate details, and the powerful stories they tell through their respective candidates. The latest lineup of utterly creative, out-of-this-world ensembles is no exception, with unique interpretations of the pageant’s theme, Bodies of Water.
The 2026 MUPH national costumes are meaningful masterpieces in every sense of the word. Here are seven standouts that deserve the highest of praise:
Jacqueline Gulrajani (Tacloban City)
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Jacqueline Gulrajani had our jaws on the floor with her national costume, a direct nod to Super Typhoon Yolanda. She elegantly transformed into the eye of the storm, portraying the plight and injustices that Filipinos have endured in far-flung, calamity-stricken areas.
Alex Colmenares (Negros Occidental)
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Only in MUPH will you find a candidate whose national costume is a life-sized can of sardines. For Alex Colmenares, this was an opportunity to honor the delicacy from her hometown. She wrote on Instagram, “A blood sardine can silhouette stands at its heart, symbolizing industry, innovation, and resilience… More than a costume, it’s a tribute to the pride, creativity, and identity of Negros Occidental.”
Juliana Hope Aquino (Taal, Batangas, and the Filipino Society of Northern California)
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Juliana Hope Aquino told us a story of grace and authenticity through her simple yet striking national costume, which she designed and put together. Juliana’s simple, white ballerina dress captured fans’ hearts, embodying her resourcefulness and her efforts to stay true to her roots in her own ways.
Aviona Dass (Palawan)
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We love a powerful golden warrior! Aviona Dass, who’s also part of the Pinoy pop (P-pop) girl group RAYA, is representing Palawan with an ode to its limestone cliffs and vivid waters. Her national costume symbolizes Palawan’s vast land, rivers, and the people who’ve protected them throughout history.
Neil Silva (Occidental Mindoro)
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Neil Silva’s national costume highlights the treasures and precious corals of the Apo Reef in Occidental Mindoro. Her colorful garments also serve as a call to preserve the country’s marine ecosystem and natural resources.
Donna Rein Nuguid (Pangasinan)
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An ancient aquatic goddess is in our midst! Donned in shimmery fringes and flowy, bright blue details, Donna Rein Nuguid blew us away as she embodied Aman Sinaya, the graceful and strong guardian of Pangasinan’s life-giving waters.
Lyneree Wly Montero-Yodong (Mountain Province)
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We’re all enchanted to witness Lyneree Wly Montero-Yodong’s natural costume grace the stage, complete with intricate beadwork, delicate fabrics, and shimmery blue hair that ties everything together. Her luminescent pieces resemble the mythical eel spirit of Mountain Province, which locals highly respect as a guardian of its mountains and rivers.
ALSO READ: Yllana Marie Aduana Will Not Compete in Miss Universe Philippines 2026
Who are you rooting for to take home the Miss Universe Philippines crown this year? Let us know in the comments below!
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