Miss Universe PH kicks off with national costume competition

THE Miss Universe Philippines 2024 preliminaries started with the National Costume competition held on April 28 at the Sultan Kudarat Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

Hosted by Miss Universe 2022 R'bonney Gabriel and actor Marco Gumabao, the competition saw 53 contestants showcasing their striking ensembles with the theme «Philippine flora and fauna.»

Janet Hammond from Southern California, Alexie Mae Brooks from Iloilo City and Tamara Ocier from Tacloban City were the top three winners, each receiving a P100,000 cash prize.

Inspired by the Tubbataha Reef, Hammond's costume was designed by Ehrran Montoya and is said to be «a tribute to the Philippines' marine treasures.»

«Adorned with an array of marine species, the costume boasts intricate textures reminiscent of coral formations, meticulously crafted with exquisite beadwork and fabric manipulations. Each detail is a testament to the rich underwater biodiversity of the Philippines, celebrating its diverse flora and fauna in all their splendor,» Filipino designer Montoya explained in his Instagram account.

«As #JetHammond graces the stage, she embodies the spirit of the ocean, radiating the essence of its wonders; she not only pays homage to her homeland's natural marvels but also captures the hearts of all who behold the majesty of the Tubbataha Reef brought to life,» the post added.

Meanwhile, Brooks wowed the audience as she ascended the stage, sporting a bodysuit with sparkling multicolored details arranged in a design that resembles an eight-legged critter called «Ugto-Ugto,» an Ilonggo term for an orb-weaver spider.

On her Facebook fan page, Brooks' team shared: «The posterior part is simply elegant and highlights the wearer's voluptuousness. The bedazzled appendages affixed to the back represent balance and personal growth and a delicate-colored cephalothorax headpiece adorned with voluminous eyes finish the look. Attached to the ensemble are stylized webs intricately decked with pearl-like embellishments.»

«Vital to the spider's symbolism is ingenuity. Its gentle yet complex web reminds us how to be creative and persistent artisans, urging us to weave our dreams with meaning and precision. May