The Story Behind Gabbi Garcia’s Hosting Outfits for Miss Universe Philippines 2025

Gabbi opened the show with a commanding presence in The Datu, designed by Preview BFFD 2023 honoree Cheetah Rivera.

In early Philippine society, the datu was the chief of the barangay—the primary unit of governance. Drawing from this symbol of authority, Cheetah referenced a historic photo of ‘Datu Bulon,’ a 19-year-old chieftain of the Bagobo tribe in Southern Mindanao.

Datu Bulon’s regalia was distinguished by gilded earrings and a profusion of gold chain necklaces. To realize the vision, Cheetah enlisted the help of Ilokano painter and 3D print artist Gabriel Pingol.

“My vision was to create a metal-looking 3D print of a pure gold breastplate, to make it look like molten gold, carved with Filipino motifs and insignia,” she shared, noting that her intent was “to make Gabbi look like Filipino Royalty.”

The result is a striking sculpted halter top in gold, shaped to the contours of the female form, with intricate etchings of traditional patterns. It mimics the strength and splendor of pre-colonial armor, worn over a sleek black column skirt that allows the breastplate to take full visual command.

In pre-colonial Philippines, the babaylan served as the spiritual matriarch—bridging the physical and otherworldly realms, and offering healing and wisdom among her constituents. Needless to say, a sense of ephemerality is captured by the persona of the babaylan— a role fittingly interpreted by Martin Bautista, known for his fluid drapery and feminine silhouettes.

To evoke the essence of the babaylan, the Preview BFFD 2024 honoree constructed a flowing, deep-neck gown in a vibrant purple silk chiffon. “I just wanted to create something that feels ultra feminine, delicate but strong,” he explained.

Further lending an ethereal aura to the ensemble, its thin straps are adorned with natural Philippine pearls that elegantly traced Gabbi’s frame, lending both structure and softness to the design.

For her third look, Steven and Leanne of Qurator Studio enlisted Jaz Cerezo to create an ensemble that channels the spirit of a pre-colonial warrior. The designer anchored the piece in a striking silver palette, taking cues from traditional Filipino blades and daggers.

“I knew from the design prompt that I wanted to do a sharp silhouette,” Jaz shared with Preview. True to her vision, she crafted a metallic chain-like bodice with a low back and mock halter neckline. Meticulously assembled from layers of rhinestone-studded metal links, the piece evoked the texture and form of chainmail, while also referencing the intricate tribal ornaments of pre-Hispanic times.

For the evening gown and Q&A segment, Gabbi Garcia stepped into a custom two-piece ensemble by Jaggy Glarino. The look spotlighted his signature basket weaving technique— a hallmark of his artisanal approach. The stylized bandeau top, crafted from full two-tone lamé, was intricately handwoven to mimic the texture and geometry of the traditional banig.

Remarkably, the piece was created without any preliminary sketches. “It was draped intuitively on the mannequin,” the designer shared.

To balance out the sculptural top, a rust-copper silk skirt softened the ensemble. Its fluidity introduced softness and movement, offsetting the structured top above. “By integrating centuries-old methods into a contemporary silhouette, the piece serves as a reflection on how Filipino cultural knowledge—often transmitted through handwork—continues to shape and inspire design today,” Jaggy explained.

Gabbi’s final look paid homage to the Filipino farmer— one of the country’s oldest and most enduring symbols of livelihood. To capture this essence, Vania Romoff brought her brand’s ethos of softness and sincerity to the fore. “We interpreted it by incorporating delicate details and refined touches that keep the look aligned with the softness and femininity the brand is known for,” her team told Preview.

She wore a custom ivory ensemble, rich in texture and volume. The cropped Camisa top featured voluminous puff sleeves and a high turtle neckline, elevated by Vania’s signature smocking technique, which formed delicate diamond patterns throughout.

Anchoring the look was a figure-skimming mermaid skirt, detailed with lace trimming and gentle ruching, which bloomed into layers of soft tulle ruffles by the hem.