TACLOBAN CITY – About 12 candidates from the three provinces of Samar Island are set to compete for the first-ever Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) – Samar title, with the coronation scheduled for February 7 at the Samar State University Gymnasium.
The inclusion of candidates from Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar highlights the organizers’ vision to celebrate the diversity and unity of the entire island.
“The decision to include candidates from the entire Samar Island stems from our desire to showcase the shared culture, heritage, and beauty of the region while empowering women across the island,” MUPh Samar organizers stated in response to questions about the pageant.
Miss Universe Philippines is considered the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant.
Aspiring candidates must first win local competitions organized by accredited partners to represent their respective city or province in the national search. The national winner will go on to represent the Philippines in the international Miss Universe competition.
According to the organizers, the pageant aims to highlight not only the candidates’ individual beauty and talents but also the resilience, community spirit, and pride unique to Samar Island.
“We are incorporating local traditions and artistry into the event to make it a true reflection of the region,” they added.
Among the contestants are seasoned pageant veterans who have already made their mark in various local and regional competitions.
They are Kathreen Kaye Dacanay of Borongan City who won Miss Pintados 2023, and Binibining Silangan Samar Turismo 2024 first runner-up; Jhyry-ross Yboa of Catbalogan City, Mutya ng Samar 2023, Miss Pintados 2023 3rd runner-up, Miss Philippines-Kananga 2023, Miss Manaragat 2022, and Miss Teen Pintados 2018 4th runner-up; and Marriane Ensigne of Dolores, Eastern Samar who bagged the Binibining Silangan Samar Turismo 2019 title, Miss Philippines Eastern – Eastern Visayas 2019, and Miss Tacloban Charity 2024.
Other candidates completing the roster are Catherine Wardle of Daram, Samar: Miss Teen Pintados 2023 second runner-up; Rose Mae Merencillo of Calbayog City; Rhina Alaiza Nuñez of Calbiga, Samar; Alexa Mei Cuemco of Gandara, Samar; Jean Merylene Diega of Palapag, Northern Samar; Krisha Abadiano of San Jorge, Samar; Carl Jean Lourence Toniza of Tarangnan, Samar; Jessica Gaspang of Sta. Margarita, Samar; and Kristine Llaneta of Zumarraga, Samar.
The organizers expressed their excitement for the event, which aims to bring Samar Island’s stories of strength, unity, and culture to the forefront. They also hope the pageant will inspire more women to showcase their talents and advocate for their communities.
The winner of Miss Universe Philippines – Samar will represent the region in the national MUPh competition, with hopes of making it to the international stage.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
