From vibrant festival traditions and agricultural heritage to religious landmarks and environmental advocacy, 19 candidates showcased the diversity of Filipino culture during the festival costume competition of MassKareyna Philippines at SM City Bacolod Oct. 13.
The competition also highlighted the growing presence of MassKareyna Philippines as a local pageant providing a national platform for LGBTQ representation, cultural expression, and advocacy, with candidates using fashion and storytelling to celebrate the identities and traditions of their respective communities.
Festivals figured prominently in yesterday’s showdown.
Angel Blair Cokiangco of Tarlac Province celebrated the Ilang-Ilang Festival, Maria Karla Boscono of Liloan, Cebu featured the Rampada Festival, and Rian Bacalla of Cebu City fused the imagery of MassKara and Sinulog.
Angel Montenegro of Davao City paid tribute to Kadayawan, Maggiriana Grande of Malaybalay, Bukidnon drew inspiration from Kaamulan, Jem Tierro of Morong, Bataan highlighted the Ibong Dayo Festival, and Reigne Barbie Monteverde of Pampanga celebrated the Ibon-Ibon Festival.
Agriculture and the country’s natural resources also took center stage.
Mia Weib Jacinto of Isabela honored farmers and the carabao, while Billy Yadao of Tarlac City presented a tribute to the city’s golden harvest.
Yeng Lavitoria of Paniqui, Tarlac incorporated golden sugarcane and thriving palay into the costume, while Aya Anderson of the Davao Region drew inspiration from the waling-waling, known as the queen of Philippine orchids.
Faith, architecture, and historical landmarks provided another source of inspiration.
Mai Arcache of Bacolod City featured the iconic San Sebastian Cathedral, Casey Paculan of Quezon City presented a modern Filipiniana inspired by the Holy Spirit, and Julian Concepcion of the City of Manila incorporated stained-glass patterns and imagery of the Blessed Mother.
Kylie Soberano of Ilocos Sur combined sacred churches, modern landmarks and the capiz windows of Calle Crisologo, while Nicole Gokongwei of Gagalangin, Tondo, Manila portrayed a guardian inspired by the Rizal Monument.
Other candidates used their costumes to advance advocacy and celebrate local identity.
RB Jean Buhian of Davao del Sur paid tribute to Philippine eagles killed by gunfire, drawing attention on the need to protect the country’s endangered national bird.
Angelicka Tupas of La Carlota City celebrated its identity as the drumbeating city of beauty and dance, while Kara Olivia Ojales of Cotabato Province presented a costume representing culture, strength, and transformation.
The competition was judged by Ysabella Wuthrich, Miss Bacolod MassKara 2025 first runner-up; Josua Salibio, Mister Cosmo International Philippines 2026 and Mister Universe Philippines 2026; and Chino Christopherson, an award-winning fashion designer and the official stylist of Miss Bacolod MassKara.
The judges assessed the 19 entries, and recognized the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural narratives behind the costumes, the MassKara Festival said in a post.
Billy Yadao of Tarlac City (#12), Yeng Lavitoria of Paniqui, Tarlac (#10), and Julian Concepcion of the City of Manila (#19) were named the Top 3 in Best in Festival Costume.
The candidates will return to the stage for the MassKareyna Philippines 2026 coronation night tomorrow, Oct. 15, at the Bacolod City Government Center.
Beyond the competition, MassKareyna Philippines continues to provide a platform for LGBTQ individuals to express their artistry, represent their communities, and bring local stories to a wider audience, positioning the competition as part of the country’s evolving LGBTQ pageant scene. ||
