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The Reina Hispanoamericana Philippines 2024 beauty queen stuns in a 'Banaag' costume, inspired by the country's ancient UNESCO-recognized Baroque churches
MANILA, Philippines – Congratulations are in order for Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2024, Dia Maté, for winning Best National Costume (Mejor Traje Típico) at Reina Hispanoamericana 2025.
Dia Maté’s breathtaking national costume, titled “Banaag,” captivated the judges and audience alike with it bold and beautiful fusion of Filipino heritage, tradition, and handcrafted local artistry.
Designed by Ehrran Montoya, the beauty queen’s intricate masterpiece is an homage to the Philippines’ rich cultural tapestry. According to her design team, the ensemble is inspired by the ancient Baroque churches of the Philippines, a UNESCO-recognized architectural treasure.
The gown is adorned with over 150,000 crystals, mirroring our churches’ grand stained glass windows. Intricate gold Mindanao Okkir patterns add more indigenous-inspired depth to the design.
Maté also wears a salacot headpiece, the traditional farmer’s hat, representing the hardworking Filipino agricultural workers and farmers. It’s complemented by a feather pen and lamp, which are symbols of Filipino poetry and literature. The gown’s train is a tribute to Filipino rattan craftsmanship, to highlight our local artisans and weavers.
Montoya also posted a series of behind-the-scenes clips and more detailed photos and videos of the dress.
Maté – who is also a singer-songwriter — was crowned Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2024 during the Miss World Philippines 2024 coronation night last July. She is set to represent the Philippines at the Reina Hispanoamericana 2025 coronation night on Monday, February 10 in Bolivia.
The beauty queen from Cavite hopes to be the second Reina Hispanoamericana winner, following Teresita Ssen “Winwyn” Marquez’s win in 2017. – Rappler.com
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