Philippines' Gabrielle Galapia is 3rd runner-up at Miss Asia Pacific International 2026

The Philippines' Gabrielle Galapia finished as third runner-up at Miss Asia Pacific International 2026, with Thailand’s Sofia Sasiwararin Atsawahirankarn taking home the crown.

The winners were announced during the pageant’s coronation night in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Oct. 10. Costa Rica’s Gia Franceschi finished as first runner-up, followed by South Africa’s Nompumelelo Amandla Malindi as second runner-up. Mexico’s Itzel Borbon completed the Top 5 as fourth runner-up.

Before the coronation night, Galapia won the Best in Swimsuit and Best in Evening Gown awards during the preliminary competition. She was also named Darling of the Press during the pageant’s press presentation in September.

In the final question-and-answer portion, Galapia was asked what she believes helps people connect despite speaking different languages and following different traditions.

“As most of you know, 99% of Filipinos know how to sing, and I think I grew up around music and I'm a musician myself, so I know about the power the music holds. So whenever you meet someone from a different country, even if you don't speak their language, or even if you don't really understand them, sing a song with them, try to dance something with them, and you'll eventually connect," she said. 

The Filipina beauty queen previously competed in Miss World Philippines 2026, where she finished as Second Princess.