As early as two months ago, regions and provinces all over the country have been gearing up for the 2026 Miss Universe Philippines so each of them had chosen their bets for the contest.
In some cases, not only two but three are selected to represent a province.
The Philippines is such a beauty contest-crazy place.
Region 8 isn’t spared.
As early as last month, Miss Samar Island was crowned at the M Grand Royale Resorts in Catbalogan City to vie for this year’s MUPH.
Miss Samar Island, collectively, is the very first title to be given to a lady from this region.
In the past, it was only individually like Miss Samar or Miss Dolores or Miss Calbayog to compete in a provincewide competition.
Aside from the Miss Samar Island title, Kathreen Kaye Dacanay also won Miss Erase Skin Care, Miss Allure Studio Aesthetic Clinic, Miss JD Printing Services, and Miss Mardon’s Coffee Shop—a wise move to promote all the sponsors of the local search.
After winning in Catbalogan, Kathreen Kaye, a resident of Borongan, Eastern Samar, was flown to Manila in her first public appearance to meet and greet her supporters, friends, fans who were dressed in Samar-inspired colors, eagerly lined up for photos and autographs and fellow Waraynons.
According to a press release by her camp, Kathreen Kaye “holds a successful meet and greet in Manila, drawing international and national media attention.” The event was emceed by a certain Alex Moico.
In her speech, an emotional Kathreen Kaye shared: "Tonight is truly special for me. Seeing all of you here reminds me why I took on this journey—to give pride to Samar Island and inspire others to pursue their dreams. This crown is not just mine; it belongs to all of us who believe in the beauty, strength, and resilience of Samar. I am deeply grateful for this love and support, and I promise to give my all as I prepare for the national stage.”
Kathreen Kaye's discoverer John Mine (his Facebook account name) said, “Urugop kita tanan mga ig kasi ko Waraynon, Samarnon para kan Kathreen Kaye Dacanay, aton ini ig dasig, kay an mga waraynon dire mapapirdi ngan pirmi la na ato” with a prayerful hands emjoi.
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