Miss Philippines pageant opens applications to mothers, married women

After announcing that it would ditch the swimsuit segment during the inaugural pageant, The Miss Philippines pageant revealed another change where they would allow mothers and wives to participate in their competition. 

In a social media post on Friday, Sept. 1, the organization announced it wanted a competition that is more inclusive and representative of all women.

“Single, married, or a mother – you are a Queen. And you are welcome to join The Miss Philippines,” the caption read.

The organization said that women who already have children and partners don’t have to give up on their pageant dreams as they believe that they’re also “as effective as single women at being influencers and advocates of Philippine Culture and Heritage.” 

This comes days after The Miss Philippines organization announced its intention to reinvent the country’s pageant scene. 

"Not your usual pageant," it said on social media. “The Miss Philippines is reinventing pageantry to come up with an event unlike any other. Here’s to a unique way of gathering beautiful Filipinas around the world. Join The Miss Philippines," it added.

In addition to the changes mentioned above, the organization also revealed that for the formal segment will now be a red-carpet moment similar to the Cannes Film Festival. The candidates' speeches will also be done in "a TED Talks style." The Miss Philippines also encourages candidates to give an emphasis on how they will promote the Philippines to the world. 

The screening started last Saturday, Sept. 2, and on Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Enderun Coworking Estancia in Estancia Mall, Pasig City. 

The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration is a new pageant founded by Miss Universe Philippines national director and former titleholder Shamcey Supsup along with the MUPH creative and events director Jonas Gaffud. They described The Miss Philippines as the "most ground-breaking national competition."

Its affiliate male competition, Mister Pilipinas Worldwide, is also open to candidates who are married and have children. 

“We believe that every individual, regardless of their marital status, can be an influential icon to promote the culture and heritage of the Philippines,” the organization said. 

Meanwhile, Maria Camila Avella Montañez was recently crowned Miss Universe Colombia 2023. She made history by being the first ever mother and married woman to become Miss Universe Colombia.