Baguio City's Gwendoline Meliz Frias Soriano captured the spotlight at the Binibining Pilipinas 2026 coronation night held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. She won both the Best in Swimsuit and Best in Evening Gown awards.
A Night of Accolades and New Awards
In addition to her wins, Soriano was crowned Binibining Philippine Airlines and Binibining Urban Smiles. The event also marked the introduction of a new special award, Binibining Tourism, which was awarded to Pauline Thea Ann Ibuyan of Aklan.
The coronation night is currently being held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with 35 candidates competing for the prestigious crowns.
Pageant Organizer
The Best in National Costume competition also took place, revealing a Top 5 based on judges' scores and social media engagement. The finalists included Mylene Bataclan Manschus and Ain Niqyla Saladaga Abad.
Last year, the pageant saw Davao Province's Katrina Anne Johnson crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2025. The event continues to evolve, reflecting the growing prominence of beauty pageants in the Philippines.
Dalia Varde Khattab of Las Piñas and Kathleen Enid Espenido of Siargao were named first and second runners-up, respectively. Fans eagerly awaited the candidates during the annual Parade of Beauties prior to the coronation.