Ahtisa Manalo turned heads at the Miss Universe 2025 national costume competition, bringing the spirit of Filipino festivities to the stage with a dazzling ensemble inspired by the country’s vibrant cultural heritage. She walked with grace in a modern interpretation of the traje de mestiza, crafted from hand-woven piña and accented with symbols of the abanico and palay, celebrating the Philippines’ colorful traditions.
A Living Tribute to Filipino Festivals
The centerpiece of her look was a tiered ballgown skirt made from an astonishing 65,000 petals, drawing inspiration from three iconic Filipino festivals: the Pahiyas of Lucban, the Giant Lantern Parade of Pampanga, and Baguio’s Panagbenga.
The gown was complemented by a reimagined peineta, making Ahtisa appear as if she had become the festival itself. The Miss Universe organization described her appearance as “carrying the glow of lanterns, the joy of our fiestas, and the enduring elegance of the Filipina onto the Miss Universe stage.”
Honoring Tradition and Resilience
Ahtisa’s costume also nodded to the timeless Maria Clara silhouette, a tribute to the virtuous, modest, and dignified image of the Filipina. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the outfit highlighted Filipino craftsmanship and resilience through its extensive use of local textiles and painstaking handwork.
“Each thread speaks of patience and pride, echoing centuries of tradition passed down through skilled hands,” Ahtisa shared. “The natural sheen of piña reflects the luster of the Filipina: resilient, radiant, and rooted in her heritage.”
Embodying Filipino Warmth
By wearing the costume, Ahtisa presented herself as “the living festival of the Philippines,” aiming to be a true ambassador of Filipino culture, hospitality, and spirit. She emphasized the deeper meaning behind her attire, noting, “This costume captures that collective heartbeat, weaving together history, tradition, and festivity into a single, radiant vision.”
Ahtisa Manalo’s national costume not only showcased her elegance and poise but also vividly celebrated the rich tapestry of Philippine culture, leaving the audience and fellow contestants in awe of her festival-inspired masterpiece.
