The Philippines has earned an early honor at Top Model of Universe 2026 in Istanbul, Türkiye, after Kristzan Delos Santos was named Top Model of Asia.
Delos Santos received the special award during the Top Model of Universe 2026 Preliminary Competition held in Istanbul on September 17.
Misters of Filipinas announced the good news on September 18, sharing a photo of the Filipino delegate wearing his Top Model of Asia sash and medal.
The organization described the achievement as another proud moment for the Philippines on the international stage.
Three Filipinos competing at Top Model of Universe 2026
Delos Santos is among the Filipino representatives competing at this year’s international modeling competition.
Also carrying Philippine banners are Czar Julius Olivar and Merianne Gabrielle Villanueva Dekit.
Dekit is competing in the female category as Top Model of Universe Philippines. She is reported to be the first Filipina to represent the country in the competition.
Olivar, meanwhile, is competing in the male category as Top Model of Universe Philippine Islands. He is the first representative from Mindanao to compete in the international event.
The three Filipino delegates are hoping to add more honors for the Philippines as the competition approaches its conclusion.
Kristzan Delos Santos named Top Model of Asia
Delos Santos’ Top Model of Asia recognition gives Team Philippines an early achievement ahead of the final competition.
The award was presented during the preliminary event, where contestants had another opportunity to showcase their modeling skills, stage presence and overall presentation.
Top Model of Universe 2026 finals
Top Model of Universe brings together models from different countries for an international competition centered on fashion and modeling.
The organization describes itself as an international fashion and model organization, with its headquarters in Istanbul, Türkiye. Its official website says representatives from more than 50 countries participate in its events.
This year’s activities run from September 13 to 19, according to the Philippine delegates’ pre-departure coverage.
With Delos Santos already securing the Top Model of Asia special award, attention now turns to how the three Philippine representatives will perform in the concluding stages of Top Model of Universe 2026.