The University of Northern Philippines Marcos Hall erupted in cheers and excitement as students and spectators gathered for the coronation night of Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026 on October 12, celebrating the candidates’ charm, confidence, and university pride.
Representing the university’s iconic colors of green, blue, and gold, Marc Renzo Molano of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and Harriet Nicole Charise Punsalan of the College of Law (CLaw) claimed the coveted titles of Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026, respectively, earning the distinction of serving as the university’s newest ambassadors of excellence, confidence, and pride.
Drawing enthusiastic cheers from the audience. Mike Angelo Arreola of the Laboratory Schools (LS) and Jhasmine Klaire Agloco of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) were named Mr. and Ms. UNP–Charity, respectively. Meanwhile, Jerick Onie of CLaw and Lea Samantha Apuya of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) earned the titles of Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026–Culture, respectively, recognizing their representation of the university’s spirit of compassion and appreciation for cultural heritage.
Katherine Nicole Romero of CAS and Chaelwin Jewel Ardaniel of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) secured the titles of Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026 Second Runners-Up, respectively. Meanwhile, Kyle Aldrin Quilana of CBAA and Jomiela Marie Almachar of the UNP LS earned the titles of Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026 First Runners-Up, respectively, marking their impressive performances in the university’s premier pageant.
The pageant opened with a vibrant production number, followed by the introduction of 17 pairs of candidates representing the University of Northern Philippines’ 16 colleges and the Laboratory Schools. Adorned in elegant ensembles embellished with floral accents, the candidates took the stage with confidence and poise, setting the tone for an exciting evening of competition and celebration.
The candidates represented CBAA, CAS, College of Communication and Information Technology (CCIT), College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM), College of Architecture and Built Environment, College of Medicine (CMed), CHS, College of Nursing (CN), College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), College of Social Work (CSW), College of Fine Arts and Design, College of Public Administration, CLaw, College of Engineering (CoE), College of Technology, College of Teacher Education, and the UNP LS.‎
‎‎After a quick break, the candidates presented their oozing forms and figures in white swimming pieces while taking the stage of the swimwear competition.
The program proceeded with the presentation of the first set of corporate awards, recognizing candidates who stood out in various categories. The titles were awarded to Mr. CHTM and Ms. CLAW as Mr. and Ms. Villareal; Mr. CLAW and Ms. CAS as Mr. and Ms. Dan Jay Tobias and Harvey Reynante Photographers Award; Mr. CBAA and Ms. CTE as Mr. and Ms. DITO People’s Choice; Mr. CTE and Ms. CAS as Mr. and Ms. Casa Jardin; Mr. CLaw and Ms. CMed as Mr. and Ms. Mind and Mug; and Mr. and Ms. CLaw as Mr. and Ms. Doc. Lala Medical and Aesthetics Clinic.
The competition then moved to the formal wear segment, where the candidates captivated the audience with their poise, elegance, and stage presence. The female candidates graced the stage in intricately designed long gowns, while their male counterparts showcased sophistication in elegantly tailored suits, highlighting the artistry of their ensembles and their confidence on the runway.
Midway through the program, UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna delivered an inspirational message, expressing his aspirations for the university to remain a dynamic institution where innovation is embraced, talents are recognized, and students are provided with greater opportunities to learn, grow, and excel. His message reinforced the university’s commitment to nurture student potential and create an environment where learners can develop their abilities, pursue their aspirations, and contribute meaningfully to the academic community and society.
‎Following Dr. Cadorna’s message, the program resumed with the presentation of the final set of corporate awards and the announcement of the minor titleholders. Mr. CCIT and Ms. CHS received the Mr. and Ms. Vera Cruz Skin Clinic, Facial and Body Care Center awards, while Mr. and Ms. CLaw were named Mr. and Ms. Le Dream Hotel. The minor awards likewise recognized candidates for their distinct talents, stage presence, and personality. Mr. CHTM and Ms. CAS won Best Performer; Mr. CHTM and Ms. CMed, Best in Inabel Wear; Mr. CHS and Ms. CHTM, Best in Talent; Mr. and Ms. CLaw, Most Articulate; Mr. CoE and Ms. CCJE, Mr. and Ms. Congeniality; Mr. CHTM and Ms. CArBE, Best in Summer Wear; Mr. CHTM and Ms. CLaw, Most Photogenic; Mr. CHTM and Ms. CCJE, Best in Formal Wear; and Mr. CHTM and Ms. CCJE, Couturier’s Choice Award.
The atmosphere intensified as the much-anticipated Top 8 finalists for Mr. and Ms. UNP 2026 were announced, marking a crucial stage in the competition. Advancing to the semifinals for Mr. UNP were the male candidates from the Laboratory Schools, College of Law, College of Nursing, College of Business Administration and Accountancy, College of Health Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, and College of Arts and Sciences. For Ms. UNP, the eight finalists represented LS, College of Medicine, CLAW, College of Social Work, CBAA, CHS, CHTM, and CAS. The selected candidates then faced the Top 8 question-and-answer round, where they demonstrated their ability to articulate their views, think critically, and respond confidently under pressure.
Following the semifinal round, the field was narrowed to five contenders for each title. The male finalists representing LS, CLAW, CBAA, CHS, and CAS advanced to the Top 5 for Mr. UNP, while the female representatives from the same five academic units secured places in the Top 5 for Ms. UNP. With the competition down to its final contenders, the candidates faced the final question-and-answer round, which tested their composure, depth of thought, and communication skills as they vied for the pageant’s highest honors.
Adding a sentimental touch to the evening, the reigning Mr. and Ms. UNP 2025 titleholders returned to the stage for their farewell walk. Taking their final turn as the university’s reigning king and queen, they were given a moment to celebrate their reign and bid farewell to the titles they had carried over the past year, bringing a meaningful pause to the night’s intense competition.
Article by Nestor Quilop Jr. Photo by University Information Office
