GLENDALE, CA — The Alex Theatre sparkled with excitement on Sunday, August 17, as the 14th Annual Miss Philippines USA pageant marked another milestone in its legacy of beauty, talent, and cultural pride.
This year introduced the Miss Philippines USA Empress category while continuing the growth of the Mister Philippines USA competition—broadening the stage to celebrate both women and men in the Filipino-American community.
The evening was hosted by Tony Cabrera, ABC7 Eyewitness News anchor, and Cher Calvin, KTLA news presenter, returning for her 14th year. The show blended glamour with heritage, as family and friends filled the theater to cheer on candidates who carried not only poise but also stories of determination rooted in the Filipino-American experience.
Adding to the spectacle, Jai Rodriguez of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy hosted the livestream, while Paco Arespacochaga of Paco’s Place conducted red-carpet interviews with judges, sponsors, and last year’s winners. Production numbers were choreographed by longtime pageant mainstay Lulu Nina and Mars Visda, manager of America’s Got Talent champions Junior New System.
2025 Titleholders
- Miss Philippines USA: Monique Geronimo of Arcadia, a scientist and advocate for disability awareness and equitable healthcare. She also carries the title of Miss Philippines USA Tourism.
- Miss Young Philippines USA: Sophia Mendiola, a professional flamenco dancer trained in hip hop and belly dance, who serves with Flamenco with Roots, a nonprofit offering free dance education.
- Mister Philippines USA: Alvin Villarosa, a first-generation immigrant pursuing a medical career, dedicated to creating inclusive spaces and uplifting neurodivergent voices.
- Miss Philippines USA Empress: Ruela Tesoro, of Filipino and Thai heritage, a devoted mother who advocates for single mothers by connecting them to childcare, education, and skills training.
Royal courts were also crowned across all divisions, including Judimae Angcaco (Grand Ambassador, Miss Philippines USA), Erynn Padillo (Grand Ambassador, Miss Young Philippines USA), Lemuel Abelita (Grand Ambassador, Mister Philippines USA), and Irene Formentera (Tourism, Empress).
A Crown with Meaning
For newly crowned Empress Ruela Tesoro, the title carried a deeply personal resonance.
“This crown represents not just beauty and grace, but the strength of a mother who dared to dream again and turn challenges into triumphs,” she said. “It’s about second chances—honoring the woman I’ve become and inspiring other single mothers to see that their dreams are still alive.”
A Platform for Legacy
Pageant producer and creative director Lou Razon reflected on the event’s evolution:
“Every year gets better. The true intention behind this pageant has always been to lead and inspire the younger generation to be brave and not be afraid to take risks.”
Monet Lu, chairman of the Mister Philippines USA judges, added that the Royal Court embodies “excellence and transformative positive change.”
Judges and Guests
Former NBA player and coach Byron Scott was among the audience with his wife, Cece Scott of The Real Deal, who served as one of the judges.
They were joined on the panel by Filipino-American actress Joyce Jimenez; actor Reggie Lee; Emmy Award–winning producer Lisa Lew; Edwin and Dr. Lani Raquel; Fil-Am “Prince of Pop” Garth Garcia; MC Aesthetics’ Marlou Colina; Tang & Java’s Diana Lua; City of Carson Councilmember Arleen Rojas Bocatija; community leader Charles Micu; National Diversity Coalition president Faith Bautista; Kubo Restaurant owner Jojo Verdeflor; and Joy Soto of the Fighter Vigor Foundation.
Community and Sponsors
The event was presented by the Philippine Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, Estilo Filipino, and Lou Razon Couture, with support from Filipino-American businesses and organizations including Island Pacific, Remitly, Fighter Vigor Foundation, MC Aesthetics, Kubo Restaurant, and many more.
Fourteen Years Strong
Now in its 14th year, Miss and Mister Philippines USA continues to evolve—expanding categories, elevating production, and inspiring generations of Filipino-Americans to take pride in their heritage. The debut of the Empress title and the strengthening of the Mister category underscored the pageant’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and cultural pride.
What remains constant is its heartbeat: a legacy of community, culture, and representation that ensures the Filipino-American story shines brighter year after year.
