Besting 15 other candidates
TACLOBAN CITY — A night of grace and local pride unfolded at the Leyte Convention Center as Kareyl May Cabahug of Javier was crowned Miss Universe Philippines Leyte 2025 on Wednesday, Dec. 10, topping a field of 16 candidates from towns and cities across the province.
Sheena Margarette Abayabay of Baybay City claimed first runner-up honors, while Alexandra Bianca Creer of Tanauan placed second runner-up. Denise Armamento of Tacloban City finished as third runner-up, with Rhealei Amarilla of Abuyog and Claire Mascariñas of La Paz also standing out among the contenders.
Cabahug’s win marked Leyte’s second Miss Universe Philippines Leyte crown and capped months of preparation centered on advocacy and community support. The pageant carried the theme ‘Kaanyag san Leyte’ (The Beauty of Leyte), celebrating the province’s culture and natural charm—an advocacy closely aligned with Cabahug’s focus on empowering the agricultural sector.
On Saturday, Dec. 14, Cabahug returned to a warm homecoming in Javier, where residents lined the streets for a celebratory motorcade in her honor. The parade coincided with the town’s official lighting of Christmas decorations, turning the event into a festive blend of holiday cheer and hometown pride.
She was joined by the Miss Universe Philippines Leyte team led by Rochelle Acuba Alfonso, the pageant’s accredited partner.
The homecoming served as both a personal milestone for Cabahug and a shared celebration for Javier, as the town welcomed the Christmas season while honoring one of its own on the provincial stage.
Cabahug is set to represent Leyte in the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 pageant, where she will vie for the national crown and the chance to succeed reigning Miss Universe Philippines Ahtisa Manalo.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
