Miss Universe Philippines national costume contest zooms in on local flora, fauna

Miss Universe Philippines bet from Iloilo (Alexie Brooks), Southern Florida (Jet Hammond) and Tacloban (Tamra Ocier). Images from MISS UNIVERSE PHILIPPINES FACEBOOK PHOTOS

A festive display of colors, crops, and creatures was witnessed at the 2024 Miss Universe Philippines National Costume Competition that highlighted the country’s abundant flora and diverse fauna.

The contest saw the 53 delegates parading their creative costumes at the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Capitol Gym on April 28, with no less then 2022 Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel hosting the ceremonies together with actor Marco Gumabao.

“Inspired by the theme ‘Philippine Flora and Fauna,’ this year’s costumes are a special display of Filipino artistry, creativity, and craftsmanship,” the national pageant said on social media.

At the end of the show, three ladies stood out and were proclaimed the Top 3 in the National Costume Competition—Alexie Mae Brooks from Iloilo City, Jet Hammond from the Filipino community in Southern California, and Tamara Ocier from Tacloban City—each receiving P100,000.

“Congratulations to ALL our delegates who performed so well! And thank you to the provincial government of Sultan Kudarat led by Gov. Datu Pax Mangudadatu for a memorable evening,” the Miss Universe Philippines pageant said on social media.

Before the competition, the ladies greeted the residents of Sultan Kudarat in a parade that saw them atop colorful and festive floats. The delegates also took part in a fashion show featuring the indigenous “inaul” weave.

The candidates are competing to succeed Michelle Marquez Dee and become the Philippines’ representative in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant to be held in Mexico later this year.

The fifth edition of the Miss Universe Philippines pageant will hold its coronation night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on May 22. Gabriel will also host the program, with “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK vs the World” season 2 finalist Marina Summers as a guest performer.

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