Everything you need to know about the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 pageant
The "most beautiful night" in Philippine pageantry is happening soon.
After more than two months since the Top 40 delegates were announced, we are now moving closer to finding out who will win the coveted Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown to will represent the Philippines in El Salvador.
Here's everything you need to know about the Miss Universe 2023 pageant:
When is the Preliminary Competition?
The National Costume competition will be aired live from Leyte Normal University on Thursday, May 4 at 7pm. Viewers may stream it exclusively on the Empire PH YouTube channel.
The event will be hosted by Marco Gumabao, while former Miss Universe Philippines Gazini Ganados will host the pre-event festivities.
It will then be followed by the Preliminary competition on Wednesday, May 10, 1:00 p.m. The 40 candidates will parade in their best swimsuits and long gowns at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila.
The show will again be aired live via their YouTube channel, but those who wish to see watch the show in person may buy tickets at the venue starting at 10 a.m. that day. Tickets are priced at P1,000 each.
That same evening of the Preliminary competition, a charity event will be hosted by the Miss Universe Philippines Organization for the benefit of Save the Children and Hope 4 Change foundations. The Fashion and Charity Gala Night, which takes place in Okada still, will be attended by Miss Universe 2022 R'bonney Gabriel, together with this year's delegates.
Those who want to sponsor a table may contact Arnold Mercado at 09171073100.
When is the Coronation Night?
The final night of the competition is happening on May 13, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the SM MOA Arena in Pasay City.
What should we expect?
38 out of the original 40 candidates will be joining this year's final competition.
The coronation night will be hosted by actors Alden Richards and Xian Lim. Tim Yap and Miss Globe 2021 Maureen Montagne are serving as backstage hosts.
Guest performers include American Idol alumna Jessica Sanchez and South Korean idol Nam Woo-Hyun.
A few notable guests are also slated to make an appearance, including the reigning Miss Universe, Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip, and former Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi.
Meanwhile, the organizers have invited an all-female panel of judges, namely former Miss Universe 2015 2nd runner-up Olivia Jordan, Miss Universe 2010 Ximena Navarrete, at Miss Universe 1998 Wendy Fitzwilliam.
Aside from finding out who Celeste Cortesi's successor is, the winners of the preliminary challenges will also be announced during that night.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are currently on sale via SM Tickets outlets or website.
The General Admission ticket is priced at P500. Special perks are in store for those who buy higher-priced tickets. The Inspirit Upper Box and Inspirit Lower Box are at P1,490 and P5,270, respectively, they each come with an exclusive souvenir card and poster.
Inspirit VIP holders are given the opportunity to have a group photo opportunity, an exclusive souvenir card, poster, and Cavaso merchandise.
Where can I watch the competition online?
There are no details yet as to where the competition will be aired, but it will most likely be shown via Empire's official YouTube channel.
What prizes will the next Miss Universe Philippines Queen win?
Aside from representing the country in the international competition happening later this year at El Salvador in Central America, the new MUPH queen will get to wear the P3 million Jewelmer crown first worn by Celeste Cortesi.
Some advertisers and sponsors of the pageant might also be giving away special prizes, which have yet to be announced.
As we wait for the big night this May 13, do check out the galleries from the Swimsuit and Photoshoot challenges first below.
