QUEZON CITY — The countdown to the next queen has officially begun.
On May 22, the spotlight turned toward the 36 hopefuls of Binibining Pilipinas 2025 as they brought the house down at the preliminary competition and press presentation—an event that transformed the Monet Ballroom of Novotel Manila Araneta City into a runway of beauty, poise, and potential.
Striding confidently in signature pink swimsits and later glammed up in intricately designed gowns by Filipino couturiers, the candidates revealed why this year’s pageant is one to watch. From first-time contenders to returning faces from other national pageants, the lineup this year is a vibrant mix of charm, advocacy, and ambition.
Among those who caught the audience’s attention was Kathleen Espenido of Siargao, who previously made waves on Pinoy Big Brother. Now eyeing a crown, she radiated self-assurance. “It’s not just about looking good. It’s about bringing your story with you on stage,” she said, hinting at the personal journey she hopes will inspire others.
For Jemille Zosa from Mandaluyong, the competition is more than just a debut—it’s a celebration of courage. “I never imagined being here, but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” she shared.
Even seasoned contenders like Jercy Raine Cruz of Makati, a familiar face from other local pageants, expressed awe at the scale and spirit of Binibini. “This is a sisterhood, not just a contest,” she said, praising her fellow candidates’ strength and style.
The judging panel, made up of esteemed personalities from the beauty and wellness world, included content creator and entrepreneur Dani Barretto, who reflected on her judging debut with honesty. “It’s harder than it looks. Every girl has something unique to offer. I just tried to stay grounded and fair,” she said.
Former titleholders including Myrna Esguerra, reigning Binibining Pilipinas International, joined the event to offer wisdom and insight to this year’s batch. “What we’re looking for is realness. You’ll know when someone is truly enjoying the moment—it shows,” she shared.
The press presentation was only the beginning. Fans will soon see more of the candidates at upcoming public events, including the much-anticipated Fashion Show on May 28 and the beloved Grand Parade of Beauties on June 7.
All roads lead to June 15, when the grand coronation night takes place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where a new set of queens will be crowned—ready to carry the Philippine flag on the global pageant stage.
As the competition unfolds, one thing is clear: this year’s Binibining Pilipinas is more than a beauty pageant—it’s a platform where empowered women shine and inspire.
The event was more than just a showcase of beauty—it was a celebration of grit, personality, and individuality. Candidates proudly displayed their “pasarela” or signature walks, impressing the judges who will help determine this year’s semifinalists ahead of the June 15 coronation night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Among the early crowd favorites was Kathleen Enid Espenido of Siargao, a former Pinoy Big Brother: Kumunity Season 10 housemate, who captivated the audience with her stage presence and heartfelt reflections. “I think my story gives me an edge,” she shared. “If you followed me on PBB, I hope I’ve inspired you too.”
For Jemille Rustia Zosa of Mandaluyong, her first foray into the pageant world was nothing short of exhilarating. “As a first-timer, I’m just grateful. Seeing all of us perform so well was very fulfilling,” she said.
Meanwhile, Jercy Raine Cruz from Makati—already known from the Miss Chinatown Philippines 2023 circuit—expressed admiration for her fellow queens. “They’re all so beautiful and strong. It’s empowering to stand beside them,” she enthused.
Batangas’ pride Ann De Mesa revealed she had been preparing for this moment since last year. “It’s been a year in the making for me, so to finally step on that stage—it’s a dream come true,” she said with confidence.
The panel of judges included Wellness Whispers CEO and social media personality Dani Barretto, who shared her thoughts as a first-time judge. “It’s tough judging women when you’re a woman yourself. But I was fair. These girls are powerful, and I followed their journey every step of the way,” she admitted.
Also gracing the event was Ariella Arida, Miss Universe Philippines National Director and Miss Universe 2013 4th runner-up, lending her star power and support to the competition.
Reigning Binibining Pilipinas International Myrna Esguerra and fellow queen Jasmin Bungay hosted the event alongside Showtime Online U’s Wize Estabillo, adding to the spectacle of the occasion. “We’re looking for authenticity and joy on stage,” Esguerra shared. “And I saw that spark in many of them.”
This year’s batch includes seasoned candidates and rising stars from various pageants and platforms, including Andrea Endicio (Miss World Philippines 2024 finalist), Jenesse Viktoria Mejia (Miss Grand Philippines 2024 finalist), and Beatriz Abalajon (Miss Eco Teen International 2022 first runner-up).
As the competition heats up, fans can look forward to the Binibining Pilipinas Fashion Show on May 28 at Gateway Mall 2 and the iconic Grand Parade of Beauties on June 7. These events will offer more glimpses of the queens’ personalities and advocacies before they battle it out for the coveted crowns.
With elegance, grace, and purpose, the Binibinis of 2025 are not just walking towards the crown—they’re walking to make a difference.
