PAGEANT season is here, and our Filipina beauty queens are already bringing their A-game to the preliminaries.
Staged in Sultan Kudarat Gymnasium and Cultural Center, the Miss Universe Philippines national costume competition had the 53 candidates presenting their ensembles based on the theme, Philippine Flora and Fauna.
Three were named victorious: Tamara Ocier of Tacloban, Alexie Brooks of Iloilo, and Jet Hammond of Southern California.
Designed by Charlotte Rodriguez, Tamara Ocier’s national costume was inspired by the sun goddess combined with Tacloban’s Monitor Lizard, often referred to as “Halo” by the locals.
Meanwhile, Alexie Brooks showcased a spider-inspired national costume based on “Ugto-ugto,” an Ilonggo term for an orb-weaved spider. The costume was crafted by Tata Blas-Pinuela.
Finally, Jet Hammond of Southern California featured a national costume inspired by Tubbataha Reef. The costume was a creation of Ehrran Montoya.
Each winner of the Best National Costume took home P100,000.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2024 is set to hold its coronation event on May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Reigning Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee will crown her successor who will represent the country in the international pageant in Mexico. (GMA Integrated News)
