JCI Manila and Miss Universe Philippines Unite for a Night of Advocacy and Impact

On the evening of April 30, 2025, elegance met advocacy at the Miss Universe Philippines Charity Gala 2025 presented by RepublicAsia and JCI Manila. Held at the grand ballroom of Okada Manila, the event gathered over 1,000 guests, including dignitaries, queens, advocates, philanthropists, members of the media, and corporate partners. Spearheaded by MUPH’s Bran F. Reluao, a digital technology leader and inclusivity advocate, the gala was a celebration of beauty, bravery, and giving back. The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization described the night as one driven by a deep commitment to supporting important causes and celebrating Filipino artistry.

The highlight of the evening was the powerful address delivered by 2025 JCI Manila President Jan Adrian “AP” Padiernos, who opened his speech with an inspiring message: “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, queens and dreamers, advocates and change-makers! Tonight, as the spotlight shines brightly on elegance, grace, and advocacy, allow me a few moments to talk about something equally dazzling… purpose.” He continued by reminding the audience that, much like the titleholders of Miss Universe, JCI Manila also wears a crown—one not adorned with rhinestones, but with the weight and dignity of real-world impact.

Padiernos emphasized that the gala was more than a showcase of beauty; it was a celebration of bravery and a testament to their shared mission. He proudly introduced Project SafeSteps, JCI Manila’s flagship Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Prevention (CSAEP) initiative, and declared that Miss Universe Philippines was now an official partner in the campaign. Special mention goes to Mon Bergonia, the Chairman of Project SafeSteps, whose leadership and dedication to the cause have been instrumental in advancing this critical campaign.

“We’re not just talking awareness,” he said. “We’re talking action. Real steps. Safe steps.” He shared a heartfelt vision of a child and a family empowered by knowledge, and of a barangay choosing to act rather than look away—all because someone cared enough to take a stand. “Dahil sa usaping proteksyon ng kabataan… silence is never golden. Awareness campaign is always tiara-worthy,” he declared, earning heartfelt applause. His message reminded everyone that advocacy, when done collectively, can become a crown of care, courage, and commitment.

The gala also served as a strategic platform for JCI Manila to pitch its core projects to key MUPH leaders, including Shamcey Supsup, Ariela Arida, Lia Ramos, Voltaire Tayag, and Jonas Gaffud. The result was the forging of a partnership that would extend all the way to the JCI World Congress 2026. Moreover, JCI Manila members met and shared their mission with reigning Miss Universe titleholders, including Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, further amplifying the organization’s vision for global impact. With MUPH’s official endorsement of Project SafeSteps, JCI Manila’s CSAEP initiative now gains powerful allies and renewed energy to reach more communities, including support for My Children’s House of Hope and the Stairway Foundation.

The evening was made possible through the generosity of key JCI Manila sponsors, whose support underscored the strength of partnerships in fueling purpose-driven programs. Among the sponsors were F.R. Sevilla, Senate President Randy Manaloto and JCI Manila Senate 2025, Past President Niño Namoco, Valvetek, Palawan Group of Companies, Workscale Resources, Jethrock Construction Corporation, SPARK – Yes to Learning and Development, and Miss Universe Philippines and Empire PH. Special thanks also go to Director Bobbit Castro and the Community Development Directorate for enabling JCI Manila members to experience this landmark event firsthand.

In a true testament to modern reach, the gala was broadcast live through Miss Universe Philippines’ official YouTube and Facebook channels, amassing a global viewership of over two million people. This digital exposure significantly magnified the night’s message and extended the campaign’s reach beyond the confines of the ballroom.

The night was elevated further by the presence of the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates, who not only graced the gala with their poise but also with their Costumes. The showcase highlighted designs inspired by Filipino folklores, blending mythology and fashion in a tribute to the country’s rich cultural heritage. It was a reminder that pageantry can be a powerful platform for cultural storytelling and advocacy.

With significant net proceeds raised, JCI Manila is now positioned to expand Project SafeSteps under the Community Development Directorate. These funds will directly support awareness campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach focused on preventing child abuse and exploitation. The evening was more than a gala; it was a declaration of collective commitment to a safer, more compassionate world. JCI Manila has once again proven that with bold leadership, meaningful partnerships, and a united community, true impact is not only possible—it is inevitable. Because together, we’re not just taking steps.

We’re taking SafeSteps.