The Philippines is once again in the global spotlight as it hosts the prestigious 48th Mrs. Universe beauty pageant in October.

This year’s staging of Mrs. Universe is made possible through the leadership of Charo Laude Calalo, a former beauty queen, successful entrepreneur, singer, and civic leader. Notably, this is her second time producing the international competition in the Philippines, solidifying her role as a strong supporter of women's empowerment and global pageantry. She also ran as the 2nd nominee candidate of the UGB Partylist during the 2025 midterm elections, further reflecting her commitment to public service and advocacy.

Charo has announced that 127 candidates are expected to compete in the Mrs. Universe 2025 pageant, which will be held at Okada Manila in Paranaque City on Oct. 8.

"There are 127 candidates expected to join the competition. Last 2023, I also hosted the international pageant. There were 100 delegates. However, this year we are expecting no more than 130 candidates," said Charo during a media conference at Simon's Place in Quezon City recently.

Charo added, "It's not a joke (to stage an international event). There's a lot of effort, so we're reviewing the logistics and security of the candidates. There's pressure, but it's also challenging. I am honored to be trusted to host the pageant. I am happy that the organizers are at home in the Philippines."

Additionally, Charo stated that she is excited to showcase the beauty of the Philippines to foreign delegates.

"The Philippines is not just home to a beautiful culture. But the most important part for me is for them to know the beauty of Filipinos inside and out. The Philippines is known for being hospitable, so that's important to me. We welcome foreign visitors," Charo said.

The pre-pageant activities for the Mrs. Universe 2025 pageant will kick off with the arrival of candidates on Oct. 1. "We will visit some of the beautiful places in the Philippines."

During the pageant, the delegates will compete in national costume, evening gown, and forum. "We don't have the swimsuit segment."

On why it's necessary to stage a pageant for married women, Charo said, "Women of today gain more learning than before. I think many women have unfinished missions in life. Many of them want to become beauty queens. I'm thankful for Mrs. Universe, which encourages women to showcase not only their beauty and talent but also to share stories that inspire people. Their stories are their power."

Charo said that the main advocacy of the Mrs. Universe pageant is prevention against domestic violence. They are empowered women when it comes to their families and careers, she also said.

The three beauty queens who will represent the Philippines at the Mrs. Universe pageant are Mrs. Universe Philippines Western Philippines 2025 Angelica Villanueva, Mrs. Universe Pacific Philippines 2025 Jenny Mercado Ortega, and Mrs. North Philippines 2025 Susan Chin.

Angela is a proud mother, grandmother, and empowered businesswoman. "My life is a blend of family, enterprise, and a deep-seated love for the Philippines. I run a thriving petroleum business and a new pastry shop in South Cotabato, where I pour my heart into crafting croissants that can rival the patisseries of Paris."

Jenny is a modern Renaissance woman, a Filipina who has successfully combined art, fashion, business, and service to others. A graduate of architecture from the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Jenny expanded her talent and creative vision beyond buildings and design into the broader realm of visual and fashion arts. She founded Art Jenerations Studio, where she creates colorful and meaningful works, from paintings to couture gowns that carry messages of empowerment

Susan is an entrepreneur, influencer, and a fashion model. "My journey has been filled with painful experiences, but through it all, I have seen God's hand at work. One of my dreams is to be a blessing to many people, to show them that there is a loving God who gives life and abundance. He is not an angry God but a compassionate one. God promises never to fail those who believe and have faith in Him."

Charo also shared her advice to the three women representing the Philippines in the contest.

"I always tell them the crown is just a crown, but the most important part of being a beauty queen is your heart. You're the leader, the voice, and the inspiration of many women.

"Win or lose, you must never forget your role as a beauty queen: you can be a good mother to your children or the mother to everyone. You can also be a sister to all the women around the world," Charo said.