Los Angeles-Based Filipino Candidate Backs Out of Miss Universe PH 2025
MISS UNIVERSE PH 2025 – An LA-based candidate has officially withdrawn from Miss Universe PH 2025, surprising fans and pageant enthusiasts alike.
Hannah Michelle Gilmore, a representative of the Filipino community in Los Angeles, California, has officially withdrawn from the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2025 pageant. In a heartfelt statement, the beauty queen cited that “the time is not right” for her to compete this year, without elaborating further on her decision.
Gilmore expressed her belief in divine timing and remained hopeful for another opportunity in the future.
“It is with a heavy heart to inform you that I have made the decision to step down and to not compete in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant this year,” she said. “I truly believe that God’s timing is never wrong, and while the time is not right for me to continue in the competition now, I trust that everything happens for a reason and hopefully when it’s right, I will have the opportunity to participate in the future.”
The beauty queen took the opportunity to extend her gratitude to her family, friends, and supporters from the pageant community. She also shared her enthusiasm for pursuing her passions beyond the competition. “This experience as Miss Universe Philippines – Los Angeles has been a blessing,” she said, adding that she is excited “for what the future holds.”
With Gilmore’s withdrawal, the number of candidates vying for the MUPH 2025 crown has now been reduced to 68. This year’s roster includes a mix of fresh faces and experienced pageant veterans such as Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 Winwyn Marquez, Miss International 2018 first runner-up Ahtisa Manalo, and Miss Earth Air 2023 Yllana Aduana.
The upcoming edition of Miss Universe Philippines is also significant as it marks the first under the leadership of the new national director, Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up Ariella Arida. As the competition progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how the new leadership will shape the pageant and who will ultimately earn the coveted title of Miss Universe Philippines 2025.