Miss Universe PH 2026 drops contestant over concerns regarding 'certain behaviors'
The Miss Universe Philippines organization has dropped a contestant from its 2026 edition over concerns about her behavior not aligning with its values.
In a statement on their social media accounts, the organization stated that it has been made aware of concerns regarding one of their official delegates and has undertaken a "careful and thorough review of the matter."
"The delegate was given both verbal and written guidance to help address the situation. Despite these efforts, certain behaviors continued in ways that were not aligned with the standards we aim to uphold," MUPh said.
"As such, it has been decided that the delegate will no longer be allowed to continue in the competition," they continued.
The organization underscored that while they "value individuality and encourage each delegate to express herself authentically," they are also committed to "maintaining a positive and respectful environment for all—one that supports fellow delegates, honors our partners, and upholds the integrity of the organization."
"We remain dedicated to ensuring that the experience is constructive and meaningful for everyone involved," they said.
While the organization did not name the beauty queen, a recent post by MUPh had excluded Imelda Schweighart of Kalibo, Aklan, from the lineup. She is the only candidate missing from the post.
For her part, Schweighart has yet to address the issue, but she recently made a post expressing her gratitude towards "everyone sending strength and standing by the truth."
"Your support is the wind beneath my wings," she wrote.
In a separate statement, the pageant veteran also talked about how "temporary noise is just a 24-hour cycle, but resiliency is a lifetime."
"I didn’t come this far just to be a headline. I am here to be remembered. The journey continues," she wrote.
These come as Schweighart raised concerns about the handling of newborns by non-medical personnel and the possible violation of established health protocols.
"To the medical community, DOH, and parents: I need your help in addressing a serious concern regarding hospital safety and parental rights. We are seeing a trend where production heads are facilitating and enforcing 'protocols' inside our children’s hospitals that contradict standard medical safety," she wrote.
"I am talking about the unauthorized handling and carrying of infants by production staff, and the pressure put on mothers to follow 'visual' directives over safe, non-separation recovery practices," she added.
Schweighart previously drew controversy after she competed in Miss Earth 2016. She had accused the winner of the pageant of having cosmetic surgery, resulting in her resignation as Miss Earth Philippines and an apology for her remarks.
There are now only 50 candidates in the MUPh 2026 pageant. The coronation night will see Miss Universe Philippines 2025 titleholder Ahtisa Manalo handing over her crown to the next winner.
The chosen queen will then represent the Philippines in the global 75th Miss Universe pageant, which is set to be held at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
