Two Filipina contenders have made a significant mark in the prestigious Miss New Zealand Pageant, breaking into the Top 5 amid fierce competition. Rovelyn Milford and Anna Cabatay not only showcased their beauty but also their unwavering determination and the essence of Filipina grace.
For both Milford and Cabatay, participating in this pageant was more than just a quest for a title. It was an opportunity to highlight the beauty and resilience of Filipinas. “The standard of beauty for me is something that’s not come from physical appearance. If you can do something and inspire other people, it’s powerful because pageantry is not about just beauty and glamour; it’s about showcasing your story and inspiring other people,” Cabatay, who was named Miss New Zealand 3rd Runner Up, said in an ABS-CBN News.
Milford, who earned the title of Miss Supranational New Zealand 2025, shared her motivations, saying, “The reason why I joined Miss New Zealand is because it was always a pageant I’ve always wanted to join. I thought Miss New Zealand is the most prestigious pageant in NZ, and if I want to showcase myself and showcase to NZ and being a representative of the Filipino community here in NZ, then why not?”
Both women impressed the judges with their intelligence and talent in every segment of the competition, earning admiration from the audience. Milford clinched the First-Runner Up Award and made history as the first Kiwi-Filipina to win the Miss Supranational NZ title. Cabatay secured the 3rd Runner-Up Award.
Milford and Cabatay intend to use their achievements to inspire fellow Filipinos, embrace their heritage, and continue to pursue their dreams, no matter where they are in the world.