66 radiant candidates rose to the challenge of becoming Miss Universe Philippines 2025—but only one claimed the crown: Maria Ahtisa Manalo.
On May 2, 2025, the highly anticipated competition unfolded at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, drawing in a trailblazing crowd of supporters from across the country who came to support their chosen candidate.
This annual event stands as a prestigious platform that allows Filipinas—regardless of background—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent the nation on the global stage as an advocate for human rights and environmental stewardship.
A role model for the Philippines
For four years, the Miss Universe Philippines competition has dazzled at the world-class arena, with loyal supporters showcasing confidence through their bold yet elegant outfits.
Among the fans of the contest are some familiar faces that have graced the stage before, such as Michelle Dee (Miss Universe Philippines (PH) 2023), Celeste Cortesi (Miss Universe PH 2022), and Shamcey Supsup-Lee (Miss Universe PH 2011).
The ultimate showcase of culture and identity
The night’s hosts, actor Xian Lim, actress Gabbi Garcia, TV host Tim Yap, and Top 11 finalist in Miss World Philippines 2022 Erika Kristensen-Lee, kept the entire crowd captivated, relishing every moment the national pageant had to offer.
Last April 29, the reigning queens were also seen by the roads of SM Mall of Asia, where patrons of the pageant celebrated not only the queens’ arrival but also the diverse cultural connection between the Philippines and the rest of the world.
Local artists serenade the stage
In addition to the country’s top beauty contenders, local artists have also taken the stage to serenade our candidates, including record producer James Reid and singer-songwriter Marlo Mortel.
James Reid serenades the top 24 candidates in their swimwear.
The Top 12 contestants strut down onto the stage in their swimwear.
Chelsea Manalo delivers a final speech as the reigning Miss Universe Philippines Queen.
The crowning glories
As the night ends, one candidate from Quezon Province stood tall: Maria Ahtisa Manalo. Despite her fall during the evening gown competition, she showed that true elegance is rising stronger.
“I fell a while ago on stage. And the thing with me is, whenever I fall in life, I always make sure I come back stronger,” she shared during the Question and Answer portion when asked about leading by example.
With no need for any luck, the returning Miss Universe Philippines candidate takes the crown and reigns supreme above all. Among the top 6 were Teresita Ssen Marquez (Muntinlupa), Katrina Llegado (Taguig), Chelsea Fernandez (Sultan Kudarat), Yllana Marie Aduana (Laguna), and Gabriella Carballo (Cebu).
With a refined presence and striking posture, Ahtisa Manalo is crowned the new Miss Universe Philippines.
As the world awaits the 74th Miss Universe in Thailand, SM MOA Arena thanks Empire PH for choosing it as the venue to celebrate Filipino beauty, unity, and national pride.
About SM Mall of Asia Arena
SM Mall of Asia Arena is the preferred venue, offering world-class services and facilities, to provide the best in international and local live entertainment and thrilling sports event experiences. For more information, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
