Was it a bird? Was it a plane? No, it was Miss Philippines Michelle Dee’s national costume, adjudged the best in the most recent Miss Universe Pageant. While many celebrated the award, others struggled to find its connection to the culture and heritage of the country.

Enter 2024 Miss Universe pageant to be held in Mexico. While the Philippines is yet to name its representative to succeed Dee, Filipino designers are already lining up to clinch the honor of dressing the MUP for her national costume.

For our part, may we suggest a national costume that truly represents the Philippines and its world famous indigenous culture while honoring the Pinoys and Pinays who are the backbone of our cottage industry?