It's official: the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 competition is in full gear, and the Top 28 have already gave it their all for the first day of the preliminaries. Just tonight, September 26, the full swimsuit and evening gown competitions were broadcasted via KTX. The livestream lasted a little under forty minutes, which was enough to see all thirty ladies strut their stuff across the Clark International Airport in Pampanga.
The first leg of tonight's show saw the candidates walk the airport's halls in deep orange swimsuits: Some wore bikinis, and others maillots, but all swimmies were identical in color. Candidates walked by order of region: Those from Luzon walked first, followed by those from the National Capital Region, then Visayas, and Mindanao.
Next was the much-awaited evening gown competition. High-slit silver dresses were ubiquitous, as were glittering frocks with dramatic side cut-outs. Several gowns, however, deviated from the course and made serious impact. If you didn't get to catch tonight's livestream, fret not: Here, we've rounded up the eight gowns that we believe really made a mark. Read on to see if your fave candidate made our list!
10 Most Memorable Evening Gowns from the MUP 2021 Prelims:
1. Jedidah Hefervez Korinihona (Davao Del Sur) in Nina Ricci Geffe
In a sea of silver, Jedidah Hefervez Korinihona beamed in neon. We love how the gown's color spoke for itself: It didn't need any embellishments or fancy capes. The subtle, tried-and-true silhouette was enough to make a statement.

2. Beatrice Luigi Gomez in Furne One Amato
You know what made this look so high-impact? Three things, actually: 1) This blazingly beautiful gown, 2) Bea Gomez's sleek and simple hairdo, and, 3) the fact that the gown's asymmetrical shoulder somehow accentuated her tattoo even more. A gown this bold really shines with the right girl, and Bea totally rocked this look effortlessly.


3. Sam Santamaria (Parañaque) in Rajo Laurel
Sam Santamaria's look was all about the details. We wish the camerawork served more closeups: Rajo Laurel's magnificent plisse work on the bodice and skirt was absolutely mesmerizing. The pearlescent grey tone of the gown was also sophisticated and timeless.


4. Jasmine Umali (Manila) in Nat Manilag
One of the most unique looks of the night has to be that of Jasmine Umali. Forest green was a lovely choice against her skin tone, and the slinky wrap-style dress truly proved to be a head-turner.

5. Kisses Delavin (Masbate) in Louis Pangilinan
Kisses Delavin wore a blue flame gown with a full sleeve that covered even her fingertips. Quite the unexpected look from Kisses, which made it all the more memorable.


6. Maureen Wroblewitz (Pangasinan) in Mara Chua
Maureen Wroblewitz gave off mermaid vibes in a heavy crystal-encrusted gown by Mara Chua. The outward-curving tendrils on the gown's neckline reminded us of lapping waves! Overall, Maureen looked beautiful in this turquoise number.


7. Christelle Abello (Aklan) in Cherry Veric
While very much in line with tonight's fixation on high slits and bright silver tones, Christelle Abello's gown offered a sultry asymmetrical spin. We also particularly love how the lining matched her skin tone—this detail set it apart.


8. Chella Grace Falconer (Misamis Oriental) in Juniel Doring
Without a doubt, Chella Falconer brought her signature confidence to this already-fiery look. The feather-like embellishments on the gown's skirt gave it such eye-catching movement and flair.


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