Ariella Arida Steps Up as Miss Universe Philippines National Director
ARIELLA ARIDA – Beauty queen Ariella Arida officially takes over as the new National Director of Miss Universe Philippines, bringing her experience and passion to shape the next generation of beauty queens.
Ariella Arida has officially assumed the role of National Director for the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Organization, a move that has both surprised and thrilled pageant enthusiasts. The announcement was made by MUPH Executive Vice President Voltaire Tayag during the introduction of the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines delegates at the Makati Shangri-La on February 15.
According to a report from Inquirer, Arida shared her excitement and vision for her new position after the event. “It’s gonna be fun, and hopefully this year we finally get our fifth Miss Universe crown. I’m really manifesting that,” said Arida, who finished as third runner-up in the 2013 Miss Universe competition.
She takes over the role after MUPH President Jonas Gaffud temporarily handled the national directorship for the 2024 edition. Previously, Shamcey Supsup-Lee, the 2011 Miss Universe third runner-up, held the position from the organization’s founding in 2020 until 2023.
Expressing her gratitude and enthusiasm on Instagram, Arida wrote, “Grateful and ready! Looking forward to an exciting journey ahead. Thank you so much @themissuniverseph for the trust and opportunity to serve as a National Director. I’m committed to making a positive impact and helping every woman shine on her path to success as they chase their dreams. Let’s make this year an incredible one.”
While Gaffud and Supsup-Lee will continue as President and Director, respectively, Arida will primarily focus on training and development. Welcoming her to the team, MUPH highlighted her shift from beauty queen to mentor, stating, “From queen to mentor! Welcome to the Miss Universe Philippines family, Ara Arida! [crown emoji] As our new National Director for Training and Development, she’s here to help shape the next generation of uniquely beautiful Filipinas.”
Arida eagerly accepted the role when MUPH approached her, seeing it as a chance to guide aspiring beauty queens. “It’s an easy yes for me because it’s a journey that I’ve been through and I want to share it with the girls as well, and with the organization as well,” she said.
Recognizing the weight of her new responsibilities, Arida remains optimistic and determined. “Deep inside, I know this is a big responsibility, and I need to prepare. But I’m more excited than anything,” she added. She also called on Filipino pageant fans to support MUPH’s initiatives. “I do ask for your support, love, and kindness, and especially the support for the organization now that I’m part of it.”
The 2025 Miss Universe Philippines competition features 69 delegates from different regions of the country and Filipino communities abroad. While the details of the coronation night have yet to be disclosed, the winner will represent the Philippines at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November.
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