9 notable Binibining Pilipinas 2025 candidates: From veterans to multi-talented queens

For over six decades, Binibining Pilipinas has been a cornerstone in solidifying the Philippines' status as a global pageant powerhouse. More than just a showcase of physical beauty, the pageant, through the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), serves as a significant platform for its candidates to champion important advocacies and initiatives.

The competition truly demonstrates that a beauty queen embodies intelligence, compassion, and a profound dedication to uplifting communities, going far beyond mere glamour.

This year's roster of candidates certainly lives up to this standard. On June 15, held at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum, 36 determined Filipinas representing diverse cities and regions will compete. They are set to impress with their unique styles, sharp minds, and impactful causes, all vying for the coveted opportunity to represent the country at the 63rd Miss International pageant in Tokyo, Japan.

As this exciting new edition unfolds, several contestants stand out. Here's a look at some of the notable candidates to keep an eye on, from familiar faces in the pageant world to those stepping into the spotlight from other fields:

Francesca Beatriz Alvalajon from Aklan Province is quickly making her mark in Philippine pageantry. She previously represented the Philippines at Miss Eco Teen International in Egypt in 2022, securing the first runner-up spot (or first princess). Her performance in the Resort Wear segment during that competition was particularly memorable, highlighting her grace and presence.

Now 22, Beatriz is balancing her studies in psychology with professional roles as a hotelier and media producer, demonstrating her commitment and capability both on and off the pageant stage.

Jeannette Reyes, representing Batangas City, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and serves as a lieutenant in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary. Her advocacy centers on marine environmental protection and conservation, alongside promoting sustainable eco-tourism.

A proven winner, Jeannette was crowned Mutya ng Pilipinas in 2022 and went on to compete at the Miss Tourism International pageant in Malaysia in 2023. There, she earned the Miss Tourism Metropolitan International title and received the Miss SouthEast Asia Tourism Ambassadress special award.

Katrina Anne Johnson, hailing from Davao Province, is making a much-anticipated return to the Binibining Pilipinas stage. She previously competed in Binibining Pilipinas 2023, where she finished as first runner-up, fulfilling a promise made to her late mother, who had her own dream of joining the pageant.

Katrina's decision to compete again underscores her dedication to pageantry. Her strong performance in 2023, combined with her genuine personality and captivating presence, has built her a significant fanbase. As she aims for the crown once more in 2025, Katrina stands as an inspiring figure of resilience and heartfelt ambition.

Annabelle Mae McDonnell, representing Iligan City, is another candidate with international pageant experience. After placing as first runner-up at Miss Universe Philippines 2022, she represented the country at the Miss Charm pageant the following year, also finishing as first runner-up.

Annabelle has a long-standing commitment to philanthropy, volunteering with Save the Children Philippines. Through this work, she supports their mission to protect and improve the lives of children in marginalized communities, an advocacy she aims to continue and expand through her Binibining Pilipinas journey.

From the world of acting to the pageant stage, Dalia Varde Khattab of Las Piñas is a familiar face to fans of the hit series "He’s Into Her," where she played the character Kim.

Born in Kuwait to an Egyptian father and a Filipino mother, the 21-year-old Star Magic artist is now a Binibining Pilipinas 2025 candidate. Her transition from the entertainment industry brings a unique background to the competition.

Jercy Raine Cruz, representing Makati, is a seasoned pageant participant who began competing at age 15. Her significant breakthrough came in 2023 when she was crowned Miss Chinatown Philippines, driven by her goal to support and highlight the Filipino-Chinese community.

Now 26, she hopes her advocacy for volunteerism can reach and positively impact an even wider population of Filipinos through the Binibining Pilipinas platform.

Alyssa Rae Zabala from Marikina is a cum laude graduate in architecture from the University of Santo Tomas. Her pageant aspirations trace back to a family legacy, as both her mother and aunt were former Binibining Pilipinas candidates.

Currently working as an architecture apprentice, she is also a passionate advocate for sustainable cities and environmental preservation, combining her professional skills with her desire for positive change.

Mia Betina Golosino of Malabon is one of the youngest contenders this year at just 19, making her pageant debut. Her participation is deeply connected to her advocacy focused on early childhood development.

Despite being raised in the United Kingdom, Mia shared in an interview that her family ensured she remained connected to her roots, instilling Filipino values and culture. Notably, she gained attention in 2017 at age 11 for achieving an impressive intelligence quotient (IQ) of 162.

Kathleen Enid Espenido, representing Siargao, is a Filipino-Australian beauty queen, model, and surfer widely recognized from her time as a housemate in Pinoy Big Brother: Kumunity Season 10.

Inspired by her upbringing in Siargao in a family predominantly of women, she is a strong champion for women empowerment. She also initiated her own project, KAI (Knowledge, Action, and Inspiration), aimed at assisting communities in building resilience and encouraging individuals to take meaningful action. Holding the title of Miss Fit Philippines, Kai sets her sights on adding the Binibining Pilipinas crown to her achievements.