Negros, Bacolod bets join Miss World Philippines 2027

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Althea Nicole Gadingan from Talisay City, Negros Occidental, and Ysabella Wuthrich will represent the Negros Island Region (NIR) and Bacolod City, respectively, in Miss World Philippines on Feb. 25, 2027, at Araneta Coliseum.

The NIR, created under Republic Act No. 12000, is composed of Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

The two candidates were formally introduced during the sashing ceremony at Park Inn by Radisson here on Saturday.

Miss World Philippines 2021 Tracey Maureen Perez and Miss Asia-Pacific International Philippines 2026 and Miss World Philippines 2026 Second Princess Gabrielle Galapia assisted pageant national director Arnold Vegafria during the ceremony.

In his message, Vegafria said they are not merely celebrating beauty in its conventional sense, but rather the profound impact that intelligent, compassionate, and driven women can have when they are empowered to serve.

“This signifies a powerful convergence of “Beauty with a Purpose” and the “Exceptionally Empowered Filipina,” he added.

Vegafria said these queens embody a spirit that understands that true radiance emanates from a commitment to making a positive difference, leveraging their platforms to inspire and uplift.

He also noted the legacy of Gwendolyn Fourniol, the Miss World Philippines 2022 queen from Negros Occidental, which stands as a beacon of inspiration.

He said Fourniol has magnificently showcased the capability of a Filipina to embody poise, intellect, and a deep-seated dedication to purpose on the global stage.

He encouraged the two candidates to draw strength from Fourniol’s example, embrace their unique voices, harness their inherent capabilities, and strive not only to shine brightly but to illuminate the path for others, truly embodying the essence of a modern Filipina leader who contributes meaningfully to the world.

Vegafria also recognized the support of Himamaylan City Mayor Raymond Tongson for his leadership and unwavering commitment to the advancement of cities that provide an invaluable foundation for the growth and prosperity of communities.

Tongson said this is an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the province and the region.

“Since we are very a young and new region, boosting our identity should be very strong to create a momentum not just for government projects and programs, but in its entirety,” he added.

He said the pageant serves as a platform to enable leaders and neighboring provinces to see how strong NIR is.

“This is not just about beauty, but with intelligence and bringing the Negrense character,” he added.

Meanwhile, Gadingan said she plans to prepare for the pageant mentally and emotionally, not just physically, considering that the platform involves many people and is wide.

“I am excited to have more learnings during our journey. I will do our part to prepare myself in all the happenings and to show the world what I got,” she added.

For her part, Wuthrich said she has learned not to be complacent and to do what it takes to give back to her supporters.

“This is not just a regular pageant, but it celebrates women who take initiative and leadership which I want to improve personally. I will give my best,” she added.

Also present were local director Jensen Torica; Bacolod Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, representing Mayor Greg Gasataya; Talisay Councilor Martin Gerard Lizares, representing Mayor Rowena Lizares; and the families and friends of the two candidates.