Escanilla crowned Miss Cebu 2025

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A 21-YEAR-OLD marketing management student from the University of Cebu's Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue Campus rose to the pinnacle of beauty and grace as she was crowned Miss Cebu 2025 on Wednesday.

Her journey, marked by resilience and a heartfelt advocacy, captivated the judges and the audience alike.

Christine Escanilla captured the prestigious title, earning accolades for her exceptional performance during the coronation night at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

BEAUTY AND BRAIN Christine Escanilla (middle) was crowned Miss Cebu 2025 on Jan. 15, 2025, at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino in Cebu City. She is joined by (from left) 4th runner-up Lane Wellington, 2nd runner-up Maijezel Sarcol, 1st runner-up Angela Magienda Aumonier and 3rd runner-up Tatiana Shantal Benedetti. PHOTO BY KAISER JAN FUENTES

She received the Best in Evening Gown award for her stunning look designed by Valerie Alvez and the Best in Sustainable Fashion award for her Omoda ensemble.

Her passion was evident during the competition's final round, where she delivered a compelling and heartfelt answer that resonated with Cebuano culture and values.

"As a Miss Cebu, these qualities should be embodied. First is to be 'espirituhanon' (spiritual), second is to be 'lumadnon' (native), and lastly, is to be a 'garbo' (pride). To be a 'lumadnon' is to be with your family, to be with your community and that is something that is innate with us Filipinos — with us Cebuanos, rather — because we are so close to our family," Escanilla said in her winning answer that earned her the title.

"To be a 'garbo' is celebrating our festivities because that is what's closest to our heart. Lastly, it is to be what we are as humans because, as Cebuanos, I know we are rich in culture and history. After all, Cebu is not just an island, but it is a place with lasting memories."

Hailing from Lapu-Lapu City, Escanilla achieved a historic back-to-back win for her hometown, succeeding Zoe Cameron, Miss Cebu 2024, who also from the same city.

Escanilla's victory marked the culmination of years of perseverance in pageantry, having frequently finished as a runner-up in previous competitions.

Her advocacy, focusing on the welfare of women and the elderly behind bars, is a cause she has been actively pursuing through weekly visits to correctional facilities.

With her new platform as Miss Cebu, she intends to expand these efforts, providing food packs, sanitary kits, and legal aid programs to a broader audience. She acknowledges the unwavering support of her family and her manager, Rabie Pogoy, as instrumental in her success.

The Miss Cebu 2025 pageant celebrated other notable contestants as well.

Angela Magienda Aumonier claimed the first runner-up spot and was named Miss Photogenic by Macy's Camera Shop.

Maijezel Sarcol, second runner-up, showcased remarkable poise, while Tatiana Shantal Benedetti, third runner-up, impressed the crowd with her presence.

Kiara Liane Wellington, who finished as fourth runner-up, also received titles as Miss Friendship (Waterfront) and corporate awards for Miss Charity Bingo Plus and Miss Oro Galleria.

The event underscored Cebuano talent and sustainability-focused designs.

Irene Kyle Salutan won Best in Content Creation for her insightful portrayal of Barangay Pasil, Cebu City.

Cestine Aury Fenix's captivating ensemble secured her the Best in Urban Cebu Wear award, with designer Hanz Coquilla named Best Urban Cebu Wear Designer.

Wendell Quisido's creation for Wellington earned the Best Evening Gown Designer title.