Yllana Aduana pays tribute to Maria Makiling in Miss Universe Philippines 2025 natcos
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Yllana Aduana dons a Maria Makiling-inspired national costume. Image: Instagram/@yanaaduana
Miss Universe Philippines 2025 (MUPH) frontrunner Yllana Aduana was a sight to behold as she donned her national costume inspired by Maria Makiling, the mythical guardian spirit of Mount Makiling in Laguna during the pageant’s charity gala night on Wednesday night, April 30.
On Instagram, Aduana and her team shared a closer look at her elaborate national costume crafted by Filipino designer Ehrran Montoya.
Aduana paid homage to the town she is representing in the national competition, Siniloan, through Laguna’s mythical creature.
Aduana looked breathtaking with her lush cascade of greens interspersed throughout the ensemble, resembling the mythical sculpture from head to toe. She also used the rare flowers of rafflesia, called malaboo, that is found in the slopes of Mt. Makiling as accent and earrings.
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“This enchanting Philippine national costume draws inspiration from ‘Maria Makiling’, the legendary guardian spirit of Mount Makiling. Radiating both beauty and power, she is adorned with elements of nature—flowing fabrics like cascading waterfalls, golden leaves symbolizing abundance, and earth-toned jewels reflecting the rich soil of Siniloan, Laguna,” read the caption.
“Her presence commands respect and awe, embodying grace, mystery, and strength. As protector of the forest and nurturer of life, this costume captures Maria Makiling’s timeless allure and the enduring spirit of the land she watches over,” it added.
Aduana’s performance was captured in this video uploaded by @dhansedon on Instagram.
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The 66 MUPH candidates dazzled the crowd at this year’s charity gala and the national costume showcase on Wednesday, April 30.
Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo is set to crown her successor on coronation night on Friday, May 2, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.