A vibrant tribute to Filipino artistry and heritage, the "Water"-themed competition showcased the country's creative brilliance ahead of the May coronation.




A Splash of Culture in Urdaneta City

URDANETA CITY, Philippines – The road to the crown took a stunning cultural turn on Thursday, April 16, as the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 National Costume Competition took center stage at the Urdaneta City Cultural and Sports Center.

Hosted by the reigning Miss Eco Philippines, Gabbi Carballo, this year’s showcase was centered around the theme "Water." Delegates from across the archipelago interpreted the theme through avant-garde designs, intricate beadwork, and storytelling that paid homage to the Philippines' rich maritime history and natural aquatic wonders.

The Top 6 Design Finalists

Following a night of breathtaking visual displays, six designers and their respective muses were recognized for their outstanding execution of the theme. The Top 6 National Costumes are:

  • Baguio City – Roxie Baeyens

  • Iloilo Province – Nicklyn Jutay

  • Negros Occidental – Alexandria Colmenares

  • Pampanga – Allyson Hetland

  • Pangasinan – Donna Nuguid

  • Tacloban City – Jacqueline Gulrajani

These costumes were lauded not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to weave Filipino craftsmanship with modern sustainable concepts.

Countdown to the Coronation Night

The National Costume event serves as a high-profile precursor to the pageant’s climax. The Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Grand Final is set to take place on May 2 at the iconic SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The evening will see the reigning queen, Ahtisa Manalo, pass the title to her successor. The new winner will bear the immense responsibility of representing the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2026 international pageant, scheduled to be held in Puerto Rico later this year.

As the competition heats up, these Top 6 costumes have set a high bar for the creative excellence expected from the next Philippine representative on the global stage.