Miss Universe Philippines announces voting periods for 2026 semifinals

Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) has announced the official voting periods for its 2026 edition, giving fans a clear timeline to help determine which delegates advance to the semifinals.

According to a press release, this year’s competition has expanded the ways delegates can move forward, combining fan votes, sponsor-backed challenges, wildcard selections, and judges’ picks.

Fans can participate during three designated voting windows aligned with preliminary categories:

• Evening Gown: April 5-11 (Announcement on April 11)
• Swimsuit: April 12-18 (Announcement on April 18)
• Interview Round: April 19-25 (Announcement on April 25)

Under the expanded format, 10 delegates will advance through public votes, five through sponsor-backed challenges, five through wildcard selection, and 10 will be chosen by the judges.

The Top 10 from each voting window will be formally announced first, while the remaining semifinalists will be revealed on coronation night.

“We are bringing the journey closer to Filipinos by allowing them to have a significant say in every stage up to the semifinals,” Miss Universe Philippines Executive Vice President Voltaire Tayag said. “Every moment matters. Every stage of the competition is an opportunity to showcase your best.”

Last month, MUPH revealed the new fan voting system through Maya.

Fifty-one beauty queens are competing for this year’s Miss Universe Philippines.

They were officially introduced during the pageant's official press presentation at the City of Dreams Manila, Parañaque.

The winner will be crowned by reigning queen Ahtisa Manalo. —Carby Rose Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News