LA-Based Filipino Candidate Withdraws from Miss Universe PH 2025
MISS UNIVERSE PH 2025 – Miss Universe PH 2025 faces a shake-up as a Los Angeles-based Filipino candidate officially withdraws from the pageant, citing personal reasons.
Hannah Michelle Gilmore, representing the Filipino community in Los Angeles, California, has officially withdrawn from the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2025 pageant. In an emotional statement, she revealed that “the time is not right” for her to compete this year but did not provide further details regarding her decision.
Gilmore emphasized her faith in divine timing, expressing hope for another opportunity in the future. “It is with a heavy heart to inform you that I have made the decision to step down and to not compete in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant this year,” Gilmore said.
“I truly believe that God’s timing is never wrong, and while the time is not right for me to continue in the competition now, I trust that everything happens for a reason and hopefully when it’s right have the opportunity to participate in the future,” she added.
She also took a moment to express gratitude to her family, friends, and supporters from the pageant community. Reflecting on her journey, she described her experience as Miss Universe Philippines – Los Angeles as a blessing and expressed excitement for what lies ahead.
With Gilmore’s departure, the number of candidates competing for the MUPH 2025 crown is now down to 68. This year’s lineup features a mix of newcomers and seasoned pageant veterans, including Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 Winwyn Marquez, Miss International 2018 first runner-up Ahtisa Manalo, and Miss Earth Air 2023 Yllana Aduana.
The 2025 edition of Miss Universe Philippines is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first year under the leadership of new national director Ariella Arida, Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up. As the competition unfolds, fans eagerly await the impact of the new leadership and the crowning of the next Miss Universe Philippines.