Cebu’s pageant scene is shouting with fresh excitement as two seasoned contenders prepare for the national stage. This selection brings experience, poise, and strong pageant credentials into this year’s competition. Here is a closer look at the women carrying Cebu’s banner.

Apriel Smith returns with experience

Representing Cebu City, Smith is no stranger to the national pageant stage. She first made waves after winning Binibining Cebu 2017, a title that launched her into bigger competitions. In Miss Universe Philippines 2020, she secured a spot in the Top 16, proving her strong stage presence and consistency. Her return this year signals unfinished business and a renewed push for the crown.

Nicole Borromeo carries Cebu Province

Flying the flag for Cebu Province is Borromeo, one of Cebu’s most accomplished recent titleholders. She represented the country at Miss International 2023, where she finished as third runner up and earned praise for her elegance and communication skills. Her strong international showing makes her one of the early names to watch in the national competition. With refined experience on the global stage, expectations are high for her Miss Universe Philippines run.

A meaningful shift for the local pageant

Organizers from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu earlier announced they would skip staging a full local competition this year. Instead, the group is focusing its efforts on relief and medical missions for communities affected by recent natural calamities. Despite the change in format, Cebu’s representation remains strong through the appointment of Smith and Borromeo. Pageant fans now await how far the two Cebuanas will go when they compete for the national crown.