Ahtisa Manalo, Gazini Ganados, and Yllana Aduana reveal why competing in beauty pageants costs millions

Beauty queens Ahtisa Manalo, Gazini Ganados, and Yllana Aduana revealed that competing in beauty pageants can cost hundreds of thousands to millions of pesos, citing expenses for creative teams, content production, accommodation, and other necessities.

In an episode of Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, the three queens reflected on the financial demands of pageantry, sharing how costs vary depending on a contestant’s preparations, resources, and the level of competition.

Ahtisa, Miss Universe 2025 third runner-up, said expenses depend on the team a candidate hires and the quality of output she wants to produce.

She added that candidates from the provinces must also account for accommodation, transportation, and food while competing away from home.

Gazini, Miss Grand International All Stars 2026 Finalist, meanwhile, pointed to inflation and the rising costs of producing pageant content as factors that have made competing more expensive than before.

“Comparing to the pre-pandemic era, sobrang laki talaga yung difference right now,” she said.

“Siguro around half a million, siguro that’s like the baseline na para makapag-produce ka ng magandang content. Kasi ayaw mo rin naman lumaban na half-baked ka, di ba?” she added.

For Yllana, Miss Philippines Earth 2023, budgeting is crucial in managing pageant expenses. She said she did not spend more than ₱2 million when competing in a national pageant, emphasizing that the amount depends on the competition.

The queens also highlighted how financial assistance and in-kind support can help ease the burden on candidates.

Ahtisa said she was fortunate to receive financial assistance from her local directors and people around her, while others may offer to cover specific expenses, such as clothing. Support can also become more accessible when candidates compete internationally, as more people may be willing to help someone representing the Philippines.

“Pag laban mo dun sa international, mas maraming gustong tumulong, Tito Boy. Kasi you’re carrying the people home,” Ahtisa said.

However, the queens revealed that not all forms of assistance are entertained, as the final decision still depends on what best suits the candidate, including their styling and skill level. Despite the high costs, their experiences underscored the importance of managing resources and finding support to meet the demands of pageantry.

—By Jhiara Episioco, PUSH ABS-CBN Intern