Bea Millan-Windorski wears PH’s colors to Miss Universe kickoff

Bea Millan-Windorski carried the colors of the Philippine flag when she kicked off her journey to the 2026 Miss Univers pageant, where she is on a mission to post the country’s fifth victory.

At her departure in Manila, she opted for a bright yellow ensemble reflecting the colors of the three stars and the sun on the Philippine flag. The bright hue lit up the festive atmosphere as throngs of supporters sent her off at Terminal 1 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City on Nov. 5.

And when she arrived in San Juan, Puerto Rico, she slipped into a short blue dress with large red flower prints, the same fabric extended into an overskirt attached to her back.

Article continues after this advertisement

Both outfits were custom pieces from fashion designer Anthony Ramirez, who derived inspiration from both the Philippines and Puerto Rico in making the dresses.

FEATURED STORIES

ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

“For my departure, I am proud to carry the strength and grace of Filipino women, in a look inspired by a defining moment in our history,” Windorski appeared to pertain to the People Power Revolution of 1986 that toppled the Marcos dictatorship when she posted on social media, and shared photos of her in the yellow dress, captured by ace lensman Seven Barretto.

READ: Hectic 2 weeks await Miss Universe 2026 delegates in Puerto Rico

Ramirez used custom Inabel Bangar fabric made of yelllow yarn threads for the dress that Windorski wore at her Manila departure. She completed her look with a matching hat and a bag with solihiya-pattern weaving, “[c]elebrating Filipino craftsmanship and the women who continue to lead the way.”

Her blue and red ensemble at her arrival in San Juan channeled the vibrant tropical atmosphere of both the Philippines and Puerto Rico.

Article continues after this advertisement

“Inspired by the beauty of our gumamela and Puerto Rico’s flor de maga, the bold floral prints, vibrant colors, and silhouette bring a little cultural connection through fashion,” Windorski posted when she shared photos of her in the dress, again captured by Barretto.

Windorski will be competing against more than 100 delegates from different countries and territories around the world for the honor of inheriting the Miss Universe crown from reigning queen Fatima Bosch.

Article continues after this advertisement

It has been eight years since the Philippines last posted a victory, courtesy of Catriona Gray who won at the 67th Miss Universe pageant held in Thailand in 2018.