Zestah Shalom Espinosa of Anilao was crowned Miss Iloilo 2026 during the grand coronation night held on January 17, 2026 at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center, one of the major highlights of this year’s Dinagyang Festival celebrations.
Espinosa, a 21-year-old architecture student, emerged as the winner among 12 official candidates, earning the right to represent Iloilo City in the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 national competition.
Her victory was marked by a dominant performance throughout the night, as she also secured several major special awards, including Best in Evening Gown, Best in Swimsuit, and Best in Introduction Video. She likewise received the Miss La Carmela de Boracay Choice Award, further solidifying her standout showing in the pageant.
During the final question-and-answer segment, Espinosa emphasized Ilongga identity and confidence, stating that Ilongga women are already “beyond excellent” because of their innate heartfelt beauty—a response that drew strong applause from the audience.
Joining Espinosa on stage were the four runners-up, collectively recognized as the Miss Iloilo 2026 Heartfelt Queens: Patricia Lynn Beerda of La Paz, Lorraine Manguiat of Tubungan, Angel Ann Teruel of Pototan, and Jessica Mae Gatungay of Guimbal.
The coronation night was co-hosted by Nicole Cordoves, Alexie Brooks, and Ryl Nuñez. The panel of judges included Rabiya Mateo, pageant mentor Jonas Gaffud, designer Jojo Bragais, former Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. president Joe Marie Layson Jr., and entrepreneur Mags Cue. Michelle Dee attended the event as a special guest.
Organized by the Iloilo City government and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc., Miss Iloilo 2026 continues to serve as a platform that celebrates culture, confidence, and the evolving role of Ilongga women on both national and international stages.
Ilonggo Traveler 
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