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MANILA, Philippines — The stage is set for the most anticipated event in the Philippine pageant calendar as the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 coronation night takes place this evening, May 2, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2025 PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO
Sixty-six candidates from across the country are competing for the national crown, which comes with the honor of representing the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, Thailand later this year. The grand coronation will begin at 6 p.m. and is expected to draw thousands of fans and supporters.
This year marks the first edition of the pageant under the leadership of Miss Universe Philippines 2013 Ariella Arida, who brings a new vision to the organization. The evening's festivities will be hosted by actress Gabbi Garcia and actor Xian Lim, with Tim Yap and Erika Kristensen-Lee providing exclusive behind-the-scenes insights throughout the show.
Musical performances will come from singer-actors James Reid and Marlo Mortel.
Reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark will also make a special appearance, along with her fellow continental queens: Chidimma Adetshina from Nigeria, Tatiana Calmell from Peru, Matilda Wirtavouri from Finland, and the Philippines' very own Chelsea Manalo, who currently holds the title of Miss Universe Asia. Manalo will crown her successor at the end of the night.
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Anticipation has been steadily building, especially following the national costume presentation earlier this week. Candidates wowed audiences with elaborate ensembles inspired by Philippine mythology, showcasing the creativity of Filipino designers and the rich heritage of the country.
Meanwhile, leading pageant portal Missosology has released its final forecast, naming Quezon Province's Maria Ahtisa Manalo as the frontrunner.
She is closely followed by Chelsea Fernandez of Sultan Kudarat and Yllana Aduana representing Siniloan, Laguna — both considered strong contenders for the crown. Winwyn Marquez of Muntinlupa and Katrina Llegado of Taguig have also generated significant buzz among pageant watchers.
Other standouts in Missosology's list include representatives from Pasay, Laguna, Cebu City, and Baguio, among others.
Fans can tune in to the live stream on Empire Philippines' YouTube channel or catch the delayed broadcast on GMA Network this Sunday, May 4, 9 a.m.
