Here’s what Ahtisa Manalo wore during the National Costume competition
Pinay beauty queen Ahtisa Manalo showcased the “grand fiestas” in the Philippines in her national costume for the Miss Universe 2025 competitions.
The colorful costume is called “FESTEJADA: Queen of Philippine Festivals.” On November 19, the NatCos competition for the 74th edition of one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the world took place in Thailand.
Last year, Chelsea Manalo won the Best National Costume. Before her, Michelle Dee also won the same title in 2023.
This year, the Philippines is aiming for the “3-peat.” In a post on the official Instagram page of Miss Universe Philippines, it was said that Ahtisa Manalo’s national costume is a representation that the culture is not just worn, but is also lived, shared, and carried with pride.
The extravagant dress featured a traje de mestiza silhouette, and it featured handcrafted piña. Every detail of the costume honors the women who shaped Philippine history.
“The skirt, built from more than 65,000 individual petals, brings together the stories of our greatest festivals — the giant lanterns of Pampanga, the colors of Pahiyas, and the blooms of Panagbenga. It is a tapestry of artistry that reflects the joy and creativity of our people,” the post stated. Fashion designer Mak Tumang created this amazing costume.
In a video captured during the National Costume competition, Ahtisa showcased the dress with elegance and charm. “She embodies the spirit of our 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐬 — beauty, grace, and cultural pride in one living canvas,” the caption of the post stated.
On her head is the reimagined peineta. With this, Ahtisa Manalo became the festival itself. Pinoy pageant fans can help the Philippine representative in winning the national costume this year by voting through the Miss Universe App powered by Zetrix.