Miss Kalinga 2026 Prelims lit up with beauty, brains, and brilliance; Coronation night set on February 13

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Miss Kalinga 2026 candidates bedazzled the public with their beauty, grace, talent, and wit during the pre-pageant held on February 6, 2026, at the Davidson Hotel in Bulanao.

The eight candidates competed in three categories: Ethnic Attire, Best in Talent, and Casual Question and Answer. The Ethnic Attire segment was judged based on authenticity and appropriateness (40%), fitness and figure (20%), beauty and charm (20%), and carriage and stage deportment (20%).

Meanwhile, the Best in Talent category was evaluated based on mastery and execution (40%), entertainment factor (40%), costume and props (20%), and stage deportment (10%). The Casual Q&A portion, on the other hand, was judged on delivery (30%), content and relevance (40%), beauty and poise (20%), and overall impact (10%).

Among those who cheered on the candidates was reigning Miss Kalinga, Fatima Rose Peralta, who recalled her experience during last year’s pre-pageant, when she misinterpreted a question and answered it indirectly. She shared that despite the mistake, her supporters still congratulated her, praising her composure and grace under pressure.

Peralta emphasized that joining a pageant is not about perfection, but about presence, purpose, and the impact candidates can make in their communities.

“For more than a decade, the Miss Kalinga platform has not just been a competition — it has been a space where voices are heard, confidence is built, and leadership begins,” she said.

Meanwhile, the candidates are set to bring their best performances during the Coronation Night on February 13 at the Kalinga Sports Center, where the next Miss Kalinga will be crowned.