Sual: Jacynthe Zena Castillo, a 24-year-old from Sual, Pangasinan, was crowned Miss Hundred Islands (MHI) 2025 over the weekend. She aims to promote volunteerism with a focus on providing appropriate interventions to communities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castillo plans to ensure that aid addresses real needs through her initiative, Actions Through Immersion (ATI). She emphasized that the group will implement firsthand engagement rather than merely turning over donations. Castillo noted that while recipients appreciate food and clothing, there is often a lack of essential medicines. She stressed the importance of donors connecting with communities to provide meaningful assistance.

Castillo believes that pageantry should transcend physical appearance and serve as a platform for real change. Encouraging the youth to embrace their individuality, the Political Science graduate from De La Salle University and an employee at an international law firm aspires to become a lawyer while continuing to participate in national pageants.

A newcomer to beauty pageants, Castillo outshone 19 other candidates from various parts of the Ilocos Region to claim the title and the PHP500,000 cash prize. Other winners included Ghelsy Reign Ravago (MHI Tourism), Divine Grace Malicdem (MHI Environment), with Anjali Pradeep Kumar and Princess Tucazon as runners-up.

The event was hosted by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and is part of the Hundred Islands Festival, which runs from March 7 to 29.