Tigbauan native named MUPH Iloilo Province 2026

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo Province formally introduced Nicklyn Tigres Jutay, a native of Tigbauan town, as its official representative to the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 pageant during a presentation and sashing ceremony on Jan. 14.

The sashing was led by Arnold Mercado, Miss Universe Philippines director for Asia Pacific and local search, and Erik Castelo, Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo Province director.

Jutay previously held the title Miss Iloilo-Binibini 2024 and is a graduate of West Visayas State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in tourism management and graduated magna cum laude.

Hailing from the coastal town of Tigbauan, Jutay advocates sustainable livelihoods and resilient living for fisherfolk communities.

She has emphasized the protection of marine resources and the economic empowerment of fishing-dependent communities while promoting a balance between tourism development and environmental preservation.

The event was attended by government and tourism officials, as well as professionals from the banking, hospitality and culinary sectors, fashion and textile experts, and members of the media and pageant community.

In a statement, the Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo Province team described Jutay as a representation of the “modern Ilongga,” citing her academic background, cultural grounding and advocacy work.

“She is not just competing for a crown; she is carrying the voice of our fisherfolk and the pride of Iloilo to the universe,” the team said.

Jutay is set to begin her preparations for the national competition in the coming weeks.