Naga Mayor Leni Robredo cancels Miss Bicolandia 2026 due to funding issues

Naga City suspends pageant amid rising costs and sponsor pullouts, but Peñafrancia Festival events will still push through.

Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo has confirmed that the annual Miss Bicolandia pageant will not be held this year after the Miss Bicolandia Committee recommended suspending the competition amid mounting financial concerns.

The decision comes in the wake of Malacañang’s declaration of a state of national energy emergency, which has prompted local government units to reassess spending priorities as fuel prices continue to climb. With rising costs affecting transportation, power consumption, and event logistics, organizers cited financial constraints and uncertain sponsorship support as key factors behind the move.

Robredo said several longtime sponsors had informed organizers that they would be unable to provide the same level of assistance due to the current economic situation.

The beauty pageant, traditionally one of the highlights of the Peñafrancia Festival, is also considered one of the most expensive events in the city’s September celebration, requiring substantial funding for production, accommodations, transportation, and other operational expenses.

The effects of the energy emergency have extended beyond local festivities. Earlier, organizers of the Aliwan Fiesta announced the cancellation of the event for the second consecutive year, citing rising fuel and logistics costs brought about by the ongoing energy situation.

Rather than proceed with limited resources, the Miss Bicolandia Committee recommended postponing the competition to maintain the standards and quality that the pageant has long been known for.

Despite the cancellation of the pageant, preparations for this year’s Peñafrancia Festival will continue, with religious, cultural, and community activities expected to push through as planned.

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