In photos: MUPH 2026 candidates in Misamis Occidental
Published Apr 23, 2026 06:49 am
Miss Universe PH 2026 Candidates
OZAMIZ CITY — Fifty candidates of the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 are set to spend the entire week in Misamis Occidental as guests of the provincial government, marking the final major activity ahead of the coronation night on May 2 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Upon arrival, the candidates immediately joined a festive float parade, smiling and waving to eager residents who lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the contestants. The lovely ladies also toured several destinations and tourism facilities across the province, including the newly inaugurated AMORAP (Asenso Misamis Occidental Resort & Adventure Park).
The Top 10 semifinalists, determined through public voting via the Maya app, will be announced at the Bayfront Arena on April 25. A special swimsuit competition is also set for April 24, where the winner will take home a ₱100,000 cash prize and earn the title of tourism ambassador of Misamis Occidental.
Roxy Baeyens Miss Universe PH Baguio City
In addition, five candidates from the Top 10 semifinalists will be declared the Five Gems of Misamis Occidental, according to Gov. Henry Oaminal. The top 1 will serve as the province’s ambassadress of goodwill, while four others will represent the province's key programs in agriculture, health, social services, and education.
According to MUPH national director Ariella Arida, the experience is both a break and a learning opportunity for the delegates.
‘It may be tiring, but it’s also one of the most fulfilling parts of the journey. The support from the people really boosts the candidates’ morale and reminds them of their purpose,’ she said.
MUPH executive vice-president Voltaire Tayag expressed hopes that the contestants' presence in Misamis Occidental would help reshape perceptions about Mindanao being a risky place to be in terms of safety.
"By being here, we are showing the world that this is a welcoming place. It's safe. We're happy and we're thankful," Tayag said.