Village Connect
The 62nd Binibining Pilipinas Grand Coronation Night marked the beginning of a new chapter for one of the country’s most celebrated pageants as NUSTAR Online successfully concluded its first year as Official Presenter under a three-year partnership with the organization. Held before a packed Smart Araneta Coliseum, the prestigious event highlighted not only the search for the nation’s next international beauty ambassadors but also the growing role of digital engagement in bringing fans closer to the pageant experience.
Hosted by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray alongside Binibining Pilipinas queens Nicole Cordoves, MJ Lastimosa, and Miriam Quiambao, the coronation night showcased the elegance, confidence, and determination of Filipina candidates. Musical performances by P-pop group ALAMAT, Kyle Echarri, and Jericho Rosales added excitement to the celebration, while reigning international queens Catalina Duque of Colombia and Chayathanus Saradatta of Thailand joined outgoing titleholders in welcoming the new winners.
At the end of the competition, Gwendoline Meliz Soriano of Baguio earned the title of Binibining Pilipinas International 2026, while Sasha-Juli Belle Lacuna of Tarlac was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2026. Completing the court were Julianne Raine Antonio of Dumaguete as First Runner-Up and Tracy Mae Sunio of Bacolod City as Second Runner-Up. The newly crowned queens will now carry the Philippine flag in their respective international pageants.
Beyond the official titles, NUSTAR Online introduced its own special recognition through the inaugural NUSTAR Online Binibini Award. Anne Klein Castro of Pampanga received the distinction for best representing the brand’s core values of Beauty, Body, Personality (BBP) while earning strong support from pageant fans through online engagement. She took home a ₱250,000 cash prize, a ₱1 million exclusive talent contract with NUSTAR Online, the official NUSTAR Online Binibini sash, and a bouquet of flowers.
The pageant was evaluated by a distinguished panel led by Senator Risa Hontiveros as Chairperson of the Board of Judges. Joining her were Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz and other respected personalities from various industries, lending credibility and prestige to the competition.
Throughout the event, NUSTAR Online expanded the pageant experience beyond the stage through exclusive digital features, interactive online voting, nationwide promotional campaigns, and on-site attractions. Fans enjoyed complimentary keepsake photos at the NUSTAR Online Photo Booth, while the elegant Photo Vignette became a popular backdrop for queens, celebrities, and pageant enthusiasts.
Reflecting on the milestone, NUSTAR Online Brand Manager Alexander Barcela thanked the Binibining Pilipinas organization for the successful collaboration.
“We’re truly honored to have shared this milestone year with Binibining Pilipinas. This partnership has allowed us to celebrate Filipinas who embody Beauty, Body, Personality while bringing fans closer to the pageant through meaningful and innovative experiences. Congratulations to Anne Klein Castro, our first-ever NUSTAR Online Binibini. We look forward to seeing what she’ll accomplish as part of the brand. This is only the beginning, and we’re excited to create an even bigger and more memorable experience for Binibining Pilipinas in the coming years,” Barcela said.
As the newly crowned queens begin their journey toward international competitions, NUSTAR Online also celebrates a successful debut as Official Presenter, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Filipina excellence while enhancing the pageant experience through innovation, fan engagement, and meaningful partnerships.
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