Miss Universe Philippines Oriental Mindoro candidate Rechel Hoco turned heads and captivated social media users after unveiling her fierce and theatrical national costume inspired by the mythical Filipino “mambabarang.”
Donning a striking red and black ensemble adorned with feathers, shimmering embellishments, and a dramatic headdress with skeletal and insect-like motifs, Rechel embodied the dark sorceress figure rooted in Philippine folklore. Her piercing gaze and commanding posture in the photos emphasized the mystical aura of her concept.
“Sa bulong ng gabi, ako’y gising. Hindi mo ako basta mababaling,” she wrote in her caption, asserting a persona that is unyielding and feared—“Ako ang takot na hindi mo kayang itaboy.”
