PHILIPPINES — The Philippines is witnessing a historic moment in pageantry as the inaugural Queen Universe Philippines holds its Grand Coronation Night on September 13, 2026, at the Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City. Thirty candidates from across the archipelago will compete for three crowns in a celebration of beauty, substance, and transgender visibility.
A New Platform for Representation
The pageant was founded by Jess Labares, a trailblazing figure who made history as the first transgender flight attendant in the Philippines and won Queen Philippines Universe 2019. Her vision extends beyond personal achievement. She wants the pageant to open doors for other transgender women to experience the stage and be celebrated as models.
"I have fulfilled my dream of becoming a beauty queen, and now I want to pass this dream to other trans women," Labares said. "I want to use this pageant not just to celebrate our beauty, but our existence." Her words underscore the deeper purpose of the competition, which champions inclusivity and representation on a national scale.
The Race for the Crown
Mikay Bautista of Pampanga has emerged as the clear frontrunner on the official voting leaderboard, commanding over 100,000 votes as of September 12. She is a pageant veteran who previously won Miss Gay Luzon 2026 and Queen of Quiapo 2026. Her return to Pampanga is a full-circle moment, representing the province where her story began.
Close behind are Shiela Magpale III of Davao City with over 25,000 votes, followed by Staycee Ravena of Moalboal, Maria Hard Napoles of Balamban, and Vhanie Medalla of Northern Samar. The top vote-getter secures an automatic spot in the semi-finals, adding fierce competition to the online polls.
Stories of Courage and Inspiration
Many candidates carry personal stories that resonate deeply. Steffy Marie Mifrano of Misamis Oriental hopes her grandmother, a former beauty queen, will see her on coronation night. Reigne Barbie Monteverde of Tarlac Province wishes her late grandmother from Cebu could witness her carrying Tarlac with dignity.
Anna Marie Tumlad of Bayawan City is challenging stereotypes as the first transgender woman to work as a financial specialist in the banking industry. "We are intelligent and we are also taking part in this community of professionals who are beneficial in our society," she said. Nikki Heredia of Cordova credits her mother for teaching her the courage to face discrimination.
Beyond the Crown: Advocacy and Prizes
The pageant's mission extends beyond the competition. The Queen Universe Philippines Foundation plans to launch livelihood programs and community initiatives. On September 16, candidates will conduct an outreach program on Olango Island, distributing 30 bicycles to selected high school students.
The top title carries a cash prize of ₱300,000, followed by Queen Global at ₱150,000 and Queen Grand at ₱100,000. First runner-up receives ₱70,000, while second runner-up gets ₱50,000. Special recognition awards include Best Dressed Male, Female, and Star of the Night, each worth ₱10,000. The winner will also represent the Philippines on the international stage in 2027.
A Night of Glamour and Purpose
Tickets for the finals range from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000 and are available at select locations in Cebu City. The event promises an unforgettable evening where elegance, confidence, and excellence take center stage. As the candidates prepare for their final walk, they carry not just personal dreams but the hopes of a community seeking visibility and respect.
