Who Is Bea Millan-Windorski? 5 Things to Know About Miss Universe Philippines 2026

1. She was born in Wisconsin

Beatrice Rebecca Millan-Windorski was born and raised in Wisconsin, where she immersed herself in the local Filipino-American community. Her maternal grandparents immigrated to the United States from La Union. The statuesque 5'11" queen now lives in Makati.

2. She has multiple skills and talents

In high school, Bea was a member of the varsity dance team, string orchestra, and debate team. She studied ballet at the Milwaukee Ballet School and cello at the Wisconsin Conservator of Music. She then attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she got a bachelor's degree in history and international relations.

3. She is a pageant veteran

Bea started joining pageants when she was in high school. In 2023, she won the title of Miss Wisconsin Earth and eventually competed in Miss Earth USA 2024, where she emerged as the first Filipino-American winner. She then represented the United States at Miss Earth 2024, where she was crowned Miss Earth Water 2024.

4. She is a fierce advocate

Called Open Doors, Open Hearts, Bea's environmental advocacy raises awareness about the climate refugee crisis and the many issues the refugees face. She participated in the Trillion Peso March and initiatives organized by Panatang Luntian and the Environmentalists Stand Against Corruption Alliance.

5. She promises to be a public servant for all

During the question-and-answer portion at Miss Universe Philippines, she was asked, "Many Filipinos are getting frustrated with the country. For you, why is it still worth it to represent the Philippines on the global stage?"

Her winning response:

"The Philippines is something and a place that I've been in love with my whole life. Growing up in a predominantly non-diverse part of the United States, I was identified as Filipina first and foremost. I often had to point where the Philippines was on a map to my peers and I always felt a sense of belonging and home. I chose to pack my life into balikbayan boxes and suitcases because I believe in the limitless potential of the Filipino people and the fact that we need to create local opportunities here so that people don't have to go abroad and be separated from their families in order to survive and thrive. If I were given the title of Miss Universe Philippines, I promise to be a public servant for all."