The Miss Universe Philippines 2026 National Costume Competition, held on Thursday, April 16, at the Urdaneta City Cultural and Sports Complex, highlighted a stunning celebration of Filipino artistry, culture, and identity under the theme “Bodies of Water.” Delegates transformed stories of seas, rivers, lakes, and coastal life into elaborate and meaningful fashion pieces.
The segment featured a vibrant display of creativity from candidates and designers, with costumes symbolizing marine heritage, environmental narratives, and regional traditions tied to water ecosystems across the Philippines.
Among the Top 6 was Jacqueline Gulrajani of Tacloban City, who delivered a deeply emotional portrayal inspired by Supertyphoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in 2013, honoring the resilience of communities devastated by the storm surge and rising waters.
Also making the cut was Roxie Baeyens of Baguio City, who paid homage to the Swan Boat attraction at Burnham Park, symbolizing leisure and tourism around the city’s famous man-made lake.
Donna Rein Nuguid of Pangasinan earned a Top 6 placement with her “Aman Sinaya” costume, inspired by the ancient sea deity believed to protect the province’s waters, reflecting the province’s deep connection to the sea.
Nickly Jutay of Iloilo Province showcased a design inspired by the “Diwal” or Angel Wing Clam, a treasured marine delicacy that represents abundance and coastal life in Panay Island.
Negros Occidental's Alexandra Colmenares impressed with a bold and creative interpretation of the local sardine industry, arriving in a dramatic “sardine can” ensemble that opened to reveal a fish-inspired outfit underneath.
Completing the Top 6 was Allyson Hetland, who presented her “Libad” costume inspired by a fluvial parade honoring Saint Peter the Apostle, patron saint of fishermen, reflecting Pampanga’s river-based traditions.
The competition serves as one of the highlights of the pageant season, emphasizing storytelling through fashion while honoring Filipino heritage and environmental themes.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night is scheduled for May 2, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where reigning queen and Miss Universe 2025 3rd runner-up Ahtisa Manalo will formally pass on the prestigious La Mer en Majesté crown to her successor.
