From Ifugao to the Universe: Valerie West Champions Ifugao Weaves on the National Stage

Valerie Claire Pawid West, the stunning representative of Ifugao in Miss Universe Philippines 2025, continues to turn heads—not only for her beauty and brains but for her unwavering commitment to cultural pride. In three recent high-profile appearances—a BingoPlus advertisement, the Sheroes Summit, and a Teleradyo interview—Valerie proudly wore pieces by Kandama, a social enterprise by Victor Baguilat Jr., which is rooted in Ifugao’s rich weaving heritage.

Weaving Identity into Every Step

Valerie’s collaboration with Kandama is more than just fashion—it’s a cultural statement. Known for fusing indigenous handwoven fabrics with sharp contemporary tailoring, Kandama serves as a visual bridge between tradition and modernity.

In the BingoPlus ad, Valerie wore a purple Kandama piece, with accents of Julongan weaves that symbolize a “community”, handwoven by Dina Dulnuan of Kandama Lih’han Weaving Association.

At the Sheroes Summit, Valerie stood shoulder to shoulder with women changemakers, wearing a stunning Kandama dress coat, which serves as a proud emblem of her roots and her advocacy for women empowerment.

In her Teleradyo interview, Valerie again chose Kandama—bringing indigenous artistry into mainstream broadcast and highlighting the importance of representation in all spaces.

A Queen with Purpose

Valerie’s journey from being an EMT in New York to a cultural ambassador on the Miss Universe Philippines stage is both inspiring and purposeful. Her style choices go beyond aesthetics—they’re acts of advocacy, empowering her community and honoring her lineage.

Empowering Through Indigenous Elegance

Through every Kandama look, Valerie West redefines what it means to be a modern Filipina. She walks the national stage not just as a beauty queen, but as a storyteller—wearing her heritage with pride and intention.

As the competition heats up, Valerie proves that true elegance lies in authenticity—and that the weaves of Ifugao deserve their rightful place in the spotlight.

How You Can Support Valerie West in Her Miss Universe Philippines Journey

Valerie’s journey isn’t just hers alone—it’s a reflection of every Ifugao, every Filipina, and every advocate for cultural pride and women empowerment. Here’s how you can stand behind her:

• Vote for Valerie via the official Miss Universe Philippines app and Kumu. Each vote brings her closer to the crown and gives visibility to the Ifugao heritage she proudly represents.
• Follow and Share her official MUPH content on social media. Your likes, comments, and shares help amplify her message.
• Wear What She Wears – Support indigenous craftsmanship by purchasing local brands like Kandama that uplift our weaving communities.
• Speak Her Name – Talk about her advocacy, mention her in conversations, and inspire others to follow her inspiring journey.

Together, we can help Valerie bring Ifugao pride to the global stage.