Bea Millan-Windorski kicks off Miss Universe journey with ‘Tuguegarao’ dress

Bea Millan-Windorski combines pageantry and environmental advocacy as she kicks off her Miss Universe journey.

The Philippines’ representative wore an archival Rajo Laurel creation titled “Tuguegarao,” inspired by the region’s topography between the Sierra Madre and Cordillera mountain ranges.

“As an avid environmentalist, I am honored to carry the majesty of the Philippines’ mountains with pride, particularly as these areas face mounting pressures from critical minerals mining,” Millan-Windorski said. 

“I hope to amplify the message that our natural world and the communities who have stewarded these mountains for generations, particularly the communities of Kasibu and Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya, are the greatest treasures of all,” she added. 

Millan-Windorski is aiming for the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown after Catriona Gray (2018), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margie Moran (1973), and Gloria Diaz (1969).

The Filipino-American beauty queen has been vocal about her advocacies and her roots, on top of being busy with preparations for the international pageant.

The Miss Universe 2026 coronation night will be held in Puerto Rico on November 24.