Cebu's Beauty Queens: A Legacy of Excellence in National and International Pageants
The province of Cebu in the Philippines has long been a breeding ground for beauty queens who have made significant marks in both national and international pageants. These women, hailing from various cities and towns across Cebu, have not only brought pride to their local communities but have also elevated the country's standing on the global stage. Their achievements span from groundbreaking firsts to consistent top placements, highlighting the rich talent pool in this region.
Trailblazers and Titleholders from Cebu
Among the notable figures is Beatrice Luigi Gomez-Odin, a lumad from San Fernando, Cebu. She made history as the first openly pansexual woman to be crowned Miss Universe Philippines. Representing the Philippines in Miss Universe 2021, she achieved a remarkable Top 5 Finalist position, breaking barriers and inspiring many with her advocacy and poise.
Gazini Ganados, born in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte but raised in Talisay, Cebu, is another standout. She was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2019 and went on to represent the country in Miss Universe 2019, where she became a Top 20 semifinalist. Her journey was further highlighted by winning the Best National Costume Award, showcasing Filipino culture with elegance.
Rising Stars and Multi-Talented Queens
Nicole Borromeo, a native of Barangay Guadalupe in Cebu City, has built an impressive pageant portfolio. She was crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2022 and later became the Miss International 2023 third runner-up. Her accolades include being the Sinulog Festival Queen 2019, Reyna ng Aliwan 2019, and Miss Millennial Philippines 2019. Currently, she is one of the strong contenders representing Sugbo in the upcoming Miss Universe Philippines 2026, indicating her continued prominence in the pageant scene.
Karla Henry-Amman, a Cebuana-Canadian beauty queen, made waves by being the first to be crowned Miss Philippines Earth. When she represented the Philippines in Miss Earth 2008, she also emerged as the winner in the Asian Region, setting a high standard for environmental advocacy in pageants.
International Achievements and Personal Milestones
Jamie Herrell-Manotoc, though born in California, pursued her college education in Sugbo, with her mother hailing from Medellin City. She was crowned Miss Earth Philippines 2014 and later Miss Earth 2014, demonstrating her commitment to environmental causes. On January 9, 2026, she married Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, marking a personal milestone alongside her professional success.
AZ Martinez gained fame in the pageant industry before becoming a housemate in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition, where she placed 4th Big Placer. As Hiyas ng Pilipinas Elite World 2022, she represented the Philippines in Miss Summit International 2023 in Florida, USA, and was proclaimed the overall winner, adding to her diverse achievements.
Tracy Maureen Perez rounded out this list as Miss World Philippines 2021 and a Miss World 2021 Top 13 semifinalist in Puerto Rico. Her pageant journey began with Miss World Philippines 2019, where she reached the Top 12 semi-finalists, a competition won by Michelle Dee, showcasing her resilience and talent.
The Impact of Cebu's Pageant Legacy
The success of these beauty queens from Cebu underscores the province's significant contribution to the Filipino pageant industry. Their stories are not just about crowns and titles but also about representation, advocacy, and personal growth. As they continue to inspire future generations, Cebu remains a key player in nurturing talent that shines both nationally and internationally.
