Miss Manila 2026 winner to compete at Miss Universe Philippines 2027

For the first time ever, the winner of the Miss Manila pageant will automatically become the capital city’s official delegate to the Miss Universe Philippines pageant.

This was revealed at the launch of the revamped Miss Manila search under the administration of Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, held at Diamond Hotel Manila on April 10.

The local chief executive delivered the news himself to the journalists and online content creators who attended the event, which was also graced by the officer-in-charge of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila, Cristal Bagatsing.

Formalizing the city government’s agreement with Empire Philippines, organizer of the Miss Universe Philippines competition, is the pageant’s Executive Vice President Voltaire Tayag.

Another landmark partnership that the mayor shared for this year’s city pageant is the collaboration with Sparkle GMA, which will give the 2026 Miss Manila winner the opportunity to start a career in the entertainment industry.

Inquirer Entertainment asked Moreno what qualities he hopes to find in the next Miss Manila winner, and he responded, “ay dapat maganda, matalino, at talentado (oh, she should be beautiful, smart, and talented).”

The local chief executive explained that in the event that his delegate wins Miss Universe Philippines and eventually represent the country on the international stage, these traits will enable her to show the world the true beauty of a Filipino woman from Manila.

The last time that a Miss Manila edition was conducted was in 2024 during the administration of then-Mayor Honey Lacuna. Several alumnae of the city pageant under her tenure, including the runners-up and semifinalists, saw action on different national competitions.

This year, the Miss Manila pageant will start screening applicants on Wednesday, April 15. The search is open to Filipino citizens who are bona fide residents of Manila, or have strong ties in the city through their birth or family, or in their places of education or employment.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. There are no minimum height requirements and women of any civil status, whether single, married, separated, divorced, or widowed, will still be accepted.

The aspirants must have completed high school, possess good moral character and reputable standing, and must be in good physical and mental health.

Those interested in winning the title must also be willing to promote Manila’s social causes, culture, and tourism, and must have a “compelling and inspiring personal story connected to Manila.”

The screening of applicants will be held at the Tourism Information Center on the ground floor of the Manila City Hall on April 15 to 18, and 20 to 25, from 1 to 5 P.M.

Applicants are requested to wear a black dress, and must bring an accomplished application form, swimwear and high-heeled shoes. Visit the Miss Manila social media pages for more information.