Ilonggas of the Universe, don't let your dreams remain dreams—it's your time to seize this moment and show the global stage the heart, strength, and beauty of our province.
The Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo Province Crown awaits as the search is on for the next paragon of “Love Woven in Beauty.” If you are a woman of grace, intellect, and Ilonggo spirit, you are invited to take your first step toward the national limelight, as the next Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo Province!
On December 8, Iloilo Province shines brighter officially formalized its commitment to the MUPH Crown by establishing the Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo Province. It was also announced that the upcoming titleholder will now be the definitive provincial delegate for the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 competition.
The official contract was signed by the newly appointed local director, Erik Castelo Рan Iloilo-based fashion designer Рand the Miss Universe Philippines Vice President for Global and National Search, Ms. Mags Cue, at Pandan Asian Caf̩ in Quezon City.
As the local director, Erik aims to showcase Iloilo Province’s local tapestry and craftsmanship on the world stage of pageantry and beyond.
“We're opening screenings for candidates with Ilonggo roots. For our ideal candidate, I think our slogan would represent her very, very much if she raises it, which is ‘Love Woven in Beauty.’ So, for us, of course, character is very, very important. That would be exemplified in her beauty, exemplified in the beauty of our province as well,” explained Castelo.
“So, if the candidate has love for anything and everything, a passion for service, it will reflect also in her demeanor. So that's what we're looking for. Much more than physical beauty, of course, but there's a standard as well. But character is very, very important. Because she is a queen not only in physical aspect, but also in a holistic view, a balance in everyone,” added Castelo.
The MIP Team held a screening for Metro Manila-based Ilonggas on December at Relish Café in Quezon City. On Sunday, December 14, 2025, will be the Metro Iloilo Media Event & Candidate Screening. Screening is from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Robinsons Place Iloilo (2nd Level, New Wing).
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Female and Filipino
- 18 Years Old and Above
- Minimum Height: 5'6"
- Must have Ilongga Roots or at least 6 months Residency in Iloilo
HOW TO APPLY?
1. Accomplish the Online Form through the QR code.
2. Upload all supporting documents through the Online Form.
3. Prepare to Bring on Screening Day: Birth Certificate, Valid/Gov't ID and professional Half-Body & Full-Body Photos
For Questions and Inquiries: 0999-868-0010 | 0966-402-0344;
missuniverse.iloiloprovince@gmail.com
HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES
Located in the Western Visayas Region, Iloilo Province is considered the “Heart of the Philippines,” while its cafpital, Iloilo City, is regarded as the “City of Love.” It is known for its world-class cuisine, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Cultural Treasures, and beaches and sandbars.
With more than two million people, it has already produced two representatives to Miss Universe: Louise Aurelio Vail, the first Binibining Pilipinas winner to place as a Top 15 semi-finalist in 1965, and Rabiya Mateo, the first Miss Universe Philippines, who landed in the Top 21 in 2020.
“Imagine, they already have a sash,” an impressed Mags Cue enthused. “MIP will mount the pageant on January 14, 2026. They are well prepared. So, everything is set. Actually, of course, I've known Eric already way back. And he is into pageantry. He was the one who helped the beauty queens and dressed them up. He is going to be a good local director because he knows about pageantry.”
Castelo is optimistic that MIP will attract quality candidates: “We know that the road towards the crown is very challenging. There's a lot of sacrifices that entail for the candidates to endure, to overcome. But at the end of the day, it is a very good platform to be able to promote advocacy, public service, social welfare. And to celebrate beauty in all its forms, inner and outer beauty. So, it's a very worthwhile endeavor.”
Also at the contract signing and serving as witnesses to the significant milestone were MIP consultants Ms. Caroline Monasterial and Ms. Hazel Gonzales of HG Studios. The event was attended by esteemed members of the press and online media together with Mr. Castelo’s good friends, accessories Christopher E Munar, public relations specialist Ryan Ros Calmante, and Ms. Monique Galang of AMRG Events.
This partnership is a pledge to elevate Iloilo Province’s potential and grace onto the national platform as the quest for the next Iloilo Province Queen officially begins.
“While we are focusing on the passion of competition and so on and so forth, but the true meaning of pageantry and the foundation on which it stands is still very solid. And we hope that many of our young women, especially the Ilonggas would realize and would take this opportunity that is being presented,” Castelo said.
In conclusion, Castelo implored: “It's not all the time that it's just readily available for them to take. So, my advice to them is simply take the plunge. Just try it out. This might be your calling. This might be the sign that you're waiting for. That you're going to make a difference. Not only in your community, but also maybe for the country, for the world, for the universe rather.”
So, gorgeous Ilonggas, be the Queen that you are meant to be!
#MissUniversePhilippines
#MUPH #MUPHIloiloProvince #MUPHIP #MUPHIloiloProvince2026 #MUPHIP2026
#MissUniverse #LoveWovenInBeauty