The national costume segment of Miss Universe Philippines 2026 showcased breathtaking creativity, with water as the central theme. Here are the Top 6 designs that captivated the audience.
Top 6 Best in National Costume
Jacqueline Gulrajani (Tacloban City)
Designed by Charlotte Rodriguez, her piece titled "Waves of Courage, The Heart of Hope" honored survivors of Typhoon Haiyan. The swirling headpiece mimicked the storm's eye, while fractured details on the bodice evoked broken homes. Her emotional cry of "Buligi kami" ("Help us") onstage delivered a powerful call for remembrance.
Roxie Baeyens (Baguio City)
In a design by Ehrran Montoya, Baeyens paid homage to Burnham Park's iconic swan boats. The costume featured white swans on her headpiece and shoulders, with feathered textures cascading down the gown. It symbolized quiet heroism, as swan boats were used as rescue vessels during floods in Cagayan.
Donna Rein Nuguid (Pangasinan)
Channeling the sea deity "Aman Sinaya," Nuguid wore a Thonette Ocampo creation shimmering in white, sky blue, and deep ocean hues. Adorned with pearls and crystals, the mermaid silhouette flowed like water, with a headpiece that felt both gentle and commanding.
Nicklyn Jutay (Iloilo Province)
In an editorial design by Al Manases Alcoran, Jutay embodied quiet luxury in ivory and champagne tones. A dramatic shell-like structure framed her from behind, resembling wings. Beadwork and crystal embellishments caught light like ripples, evoking a pearl hidden within an oyster.
Alexandria Colmenares (Negros Occidental)
Bold and campy, Colmenares' design by Ruffy Itaas drew from Victorias City's sardine industry. The literal sardine can silhouette transformed an everyday staple into a runway statement, sparking online buzz for its straightforward concept.
Allyson Hetland (Pampanga)
Closing the lineup, "Libad / Fluvial Parade" paid tribute to Apalit's river procession honoring Saint Peter the Apostle. Layered fabrics mimicked water's rhythm, while lantern-inspired elements brought bursts of light, balancing devotion with festivity.
Cebu Bets
Although not in the Top 6, Cebu's representatives delivered standout performances. Nicole Borromeo of Cebu Province showcased Moalboal and Kawasan Falls through coral-like textures and wave patterns. Apriel Smith of Cebu City drew from sacred waters, inspired by the Santo Niño de Cebu and the Sinulog Festival's fluvial procession.
The next Miss Universe Philippines queen will be crowned by Ahtisa Manalo on May 2, before representing the country at Miss Universe 2026 in Puerto Rico this November.
