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Who is Catherine Wardle? 5 things about the Miss Teen Universe Philippines 2026
Catherine Wardle is among the young pageant queens who made waves in the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 competition, representing Samar Island.
Recently, she was named Miss Teen Universe Philippines 2026 and will soon represent the country on the international stage.
Here are five things to know about Catherine:
1. The basics
Catherine is an 18-year-old British-Filipina standing at 5-foot-10. Aside from pageantry, she is also an athlete, student leader, and volunteer.
Her background and experience in leadership and community work have become part of her identity as she makes a name in pageantry.
2. She has lived in Bangkok, Manila, and Samar
Catherine was born and raised in Bangkok, later moving to Manila, and eventually settling in Catbalogan, Samar.
During her Miss Universe Philippines preliminary interview, she shared how living in different places shaped her perspective on life.
“Growing up in big cities from Manila and Bangkok, it was really fast-paced and chaotic. But when I moved to the province, I really got to slow down and witness firsthand the struggles of my fellow peers in school,” she said.
“And I realized that I grew up with privilege and I wanted to use that privilege for good. And so that's why I chose to create an impact in my community and join in organizations that helped on causes such as youth empowerment and building a stronger sense of community,” she added.
3. A proud Paulinian
Catherine finished high school at Saint Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS).
During her senior high school years, she actively participated in extracurricular organizations, serving as Foundation Chair of the Interact Club of SPSPS San Juanico while also becoming a member of the Saint Paul Performing Arts.
4. She won the MUPH Samar title representing Catbalogan City
In December 2025, Catherine was crowned Miss Universe Philippines - Samar Island, representing Catbalogan City.
The win marked a major milestone for the beauty queen after previously placing as runner-up multiple times.
“After four runner-up finishes, often standing just one step away as first or second runner-up, I finally clinched my first crown. And fittingly, it is the universe that placed it on my head,” she wrote in an Instagram post.
5. Catherine is among the youngest delegates in the MUPH 2026 batch
Catherine is one of the youngest contestants who competed in Miss Universe Philippines 2026.
When asked what she would change about her childhood, she admitted she wished she had been kinder to herself.
“One thing I would like to change about my childhood is probably be more gentle with myself because I am definitely my biggest critic,” she said.
“But here I am now for Miss Universe Philippines, achieving and trying to clinch my dream,” she added.
— LA, GMA News
