Great news for Filipino pageant fans! Miss Filipinas, Deanna Marie ‘Dia’ Mate, has won the Best National Costume Award at the ongoing Reina Hispanoamericana pageant in Bolivia.
The Caviteña beauty queen dominated the national costume competition held on February 3, 2025, (Philippine time) in Porongo, wearing ‘Banaag,’ a stunning creation by Ehrran Montoya.
Dia captivated the judges and the audience, earning the Mejor Traje Típico (Best in National Costume) title with her Filipiniana attire inspired by Philippine Baroque churches.
“Felicitamos a Dia Mate por ser electa como el Mejor Traje Típico del certamen Reina Hispanoamericana, evento que se realiza en el Municipio de Porongo. Felicidades Filipinas (Congratulations to Dia Mate for being chosen as the Best National Costume at the Reina Hispanoamericana pageant, an event held in the Municipality of Porongo. Congratulations, Philippines)!!!” Reina Hispanoamericana shared on its Facebook post.
CHECK OUT Dia Mate’s photos as she receives the Mejor Traje Típico sash here:
In a social media post, renowned Filipino designer Ehrran Montoya shared the inspiration behind Dia’s national costume.
“This Philippine National Costume beautifully merges the country’s heritage and tradition. Inspired by the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, the gown is adorned with over 150,000 crystals, mimicking the vibrant stained glass windows,” he said.
The dress is also embellished with intricate Filipino elements such as gold Mindanao Okkir, rattan, and a quill, complemented by a salakot headdress and a lamp.
“Gold Mindanao Okkir patterns embellish the design, symbolizing indigenous artistry. A salacot headpiece, traditionally worn by farmers, adds an agricultural touch, while feather pen and lamp accessories celebrate the muses of Filipino poetry,” the fashion designer further explained.
“The gown’s train features the intricate craftsmanship of rattan furniture, honoring Filipino artisanal skill. This costume is a stunning tribute to the nation’s rich cultural legacy,” Montoya concluded.
TAKE a closer look at Ehrran Montoya’s award-winning creation here:
Dia is vying for the Philippines’ second Reina Hispanoamericana crown, following actress-beauty queen Teresita Ssen ‘Winwyn’ Marquez, who won the title in 2017. Winwyn’s ‘Pintados Warrior Queen’ attire was among the Top 3 Best National Costumes in that edition.
In 2020, Katrina Llegado also made headlines in the Reina Hispanoamericana national costume competition after placing in the Top 5 with her Ibong Adarna-inspired festival outfit.
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