Drag queen and beauty queen Marina Summers used the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 launch event on Tuesday to call on the public to vote wisely in the upcoming elections.
Speaking at the press conference, Summers emphasized the importance of choosing leaders who genuinely serve the people. "We have the power to choose. Let's not waste it. Vote smart," she said, drawing a parallel between pageantry and politics: both require preparation, authenticity, and purpose.
The event, held at a hotel in Pasay City, introduced the new batch of candidates for the 2026 pageant. Summers, a former Miss Universe Philippines finalist and a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, serves as an ambassador for the organization.
Her remarks come ahead of the Philippine midterm elections, scheduled for May 2025, where voters will elect local officials and members of Congress.