MALITBOG, Bukidnon — Malitbog is banking on a tourism and economic boost after successfully hosting the Miss Philippines Earth 2026 pageant, which drew thousands of visitors and showcased the municipality's top attractions to a nationwide audience.
On Saturday, June 27, the town welcomed 32 candidates from across the country for the national pageant, attracting supporters, delegates, and tourists to the event while putting Malitbog's tourism sites in the spotlight.
Crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2026 was Rina Andrea delos Santos of Ballesteros, Cagayan.
Delos Santos, a community tour guide, said the candidates enjoyed Bukidnon's scenic landscapes, making their stay both memorable and meaningful.
Malitbog Mayor Gary Casiño said the local government spent six months preparing for the event, which was organized to promote the municipality as a tourism destination.
"Gusto nato nga madugang pa mailhan ang atong lungsod sa Malitbog ug ikaduha, mag-boost pud sa atong tourism," Casiño said.
He said the pageant gave Malitbog a rare opportunity to showcase its natural attractions, including Bagyangon Falls in Barangay San Luis and the municipality's paragliding site in Sitio San Migara.
Following the successful hosting, Casiño expressed hope that the exposure would bring more visitors, encourage investments, and spur improvements in local infrastructure.
He added that increased tourist arrivals are expected to generate more livelihood opportunities for local businesses and help strengthen the municipality's growing tourism industry.
Meanwhile, the pageant's Top 5 finalists represented Miss Earth Philippines Earth 2026 Rina Andrea delos Santos, Ballesteros, Cagayan; Miss Earth Philippines Air 2026 Prima Joy Alamban, Tumauini, Isabela; Miss Earth Philippines Water 2026, Alyssa Mildred Villariña, Mandaluyong City; Miss Earth Philippines Fire 2026Patricia Bangug, Agoo, La Union; and Miss Philippines Eco-Tourism, Roveelaine Eve Castillo, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.
