By Mariela Angella Oladive
Karen Nicole Piccio of Maasin, Iloilo, emerged as Miss Iloilo 2025 during the coronation night held on Saturday, January 11, at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center in La Paz, Iloilo City.
Piccio bested nine other candidates to succeed Alexie Mae Brooks, the reigning Miss Philippines-Eco International, who concluded her reign as Miss Iloilo 2024 with a heartfelt farewell.
Brooks, who previously finished in the Top 10 of Miss Universe Philippines 2024, wowed the audience with a stunning transformation, trading her iconic buzz cut for long, flowing hair.
Piccio’s extensive pageant experience contributed to her victory. She previously held the Miss Philippines-Ecotourism title in the 2019 Miss Philippines Earth pageant and was first runner-up in the 2023 Miss Manila: Woman of Wonder contest.
Her Miss Iloilo 2025 triumph also included numerous awards:
- Corporate Awards: Miss Elseley Aesthetic, Miss Robinsons Malls, Miss Carelon Global, Miss The Medical City Iloilo, Miss Fit White, Miss Dr. Wong’s, Miss BISCOM, Miss PLDT, and Miss Mountain Dew.
- Special Awards: Best in Introduction Video, Best in Advocacy and Tourism Video, Best Runway Model, Best in Closed-Door Interview, Best Gastronomy Costume (tied), and Miss Dito.
Winning Answer
During the final question-and-answer portion, candidates were asked:
“As a woman of heartfelt beauty, what do you believe is one best practice of Iloilo that the rest of the Philippines can emulate?”
Piccio highlighted Iloilo’s distinction as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, emphasizing its cultural and culinary pride:
“Given that our LGU and our beloved mayor have already taken a step in applying and being awarded by UNESCO as one of the Creative Cities of Gastronomy, this is something we can exemplify to the Philippines and the world.”
“As Ilonggos, we are known for our loving and caring nature. My parents showed love through food, especially when we were sick. This is something I embody and share with the world.”
“We have a dish called KBL (Kadyos, Baboy, and Langka), made special with batuan, a unique ingredient. I believe I am a reflection of this cultural pride. In my vlogs, I use the hashtag #DearIloilo, and tonight, ipabugal ta gid ka (we are truly proud of you). I promise to make you proud. Love, #ThatFilipinaKaren.”
Runners-Up and Other Finalists
Joining Piccio in the top three were Rhea Marissa Puyong of Passi City, who won Best in Swimsuit, and Elaine Segura of Guimbal, awarded Best in Evening Gown.
Other finalists included:
- Denielle Orsua (Jaro, Iloilo City)
- Coleen Faye Peniero (Calinog)
- Karla Marie Dunlap (Mandurriao, Iloilo City)
- Frylle Vy Eunice Aguacito (San Enrique)
- Teshia Kaye Palomo (San Enrique)
- Clarise Deocades (Dumangas)
- Jenna Mae Parina (Molo, Iloilo City)
The coronation night was hosted by Miss Grand International 2016 first runner-up Nicole Cordoves and Ilonggo pride Ryl Nuñez.
The judging panel featured prominent figures, including Tarah Valencia, Miss Philippines Supranational 2025; Yllana Marie Aduana, Miss Earth Air 2023; Samantha Bernardo, Miss Grand International 2020 first runner-up; and Beaver Lopez, an entrepreneur and wellness advocate.
Organized by the Iloilo City Government and Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), the event was one of the highlights of this year’s Dinagyang Festival.
