Gabriella Carballo Named Miss Eco International Philippines 2025 After Powerful Q&A Performance
3 min read
MAY 03,2025
MANILA, Philippines — Cebu City’s very own Gabriella “Gabbi” Mai Carballo delivered a standout performance at the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 pageant, earning her a spot in the Top 6 and the title of Miss Eco International Philippines 2025.
The 26-year-old medical doctor impressed both the judges and the crowd with her poise, authenticity, and strong sense of purpose throughout the competition. She now prepares to represent the Philippines on the international stage — aiming to bring home the country’s fourth Miss Eco International crown, following Alexie Mae Brooks’ recent win.
From Cebu With Heart: Gabbi’s Stunning Performance
Gabbi stood out with her strong stage presence and symbolism-rich presentation. Her Santelmo-inspired National Costume, paying tribute to Filipino mythology, earned praise from fans and fashion critics alike. For the evening gown competition, she wore a dazzling silver gown by Cebuano designer Furne Amato, further showcasing Cebu’s rich fashion scene.
But it was Gabbi’s Q&A answer that captured hearts nationwide.
Gabriella Carballo: People’s Choice for Best Q&A
During the Q&A segment held at the Mall of Asia Arena on May 2, host Xian Lim posed a thoughtful question to Gabbi. He asked how, despite the constant scrutiny and mounting public pressure, she manages to remain authentic and true to herself. Gabbi’s heartfelt answer went viral on social media and was widely hailed as the People’s Choice for Best Q&A.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized it all comes down to the posture of your heart,” she said confidently. “You have to ask, ‘Am I putting out the best version of myself into the world? Am I helping others with it?’ If we’re not making a positive impact, why are we here?”
She added, “I hope we can all move forward, bring people along with us, and build a better society. As Filipinos, we can always choose to lead with love.”
The crowd roared in agreement, and online audiences praised her answer as inspiring, grounded, and sincere. Social media polls and pageant communities quickly picked her as the best speaker of the night.
Gabriella Carballo-Powerhouse Line-Up: Veterans and Crowned Queens
Maria Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon claimed the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 crown, with Winwyn Marquez of Muntinlupa and Yllana Marie Aduana of Siniloan finishing as first and second runners-up.
Along with Gabbi, other finalists were appointed to represent the country internationally:
- Chelsea Fernandez of Sultan Kudarat as Miss Cosmo Philippines 2025
- Maria Katrina Llegado of Taguig as Miss Supranational Philippines 2026
Chelsea takes over the Cosmo title from Ahtisa, who placed in the Top 10 at Miss Cosmo 2024.
Ahtisa Manalo Heads to Thailand for Miss Universe 2025
Ahtisa will represent the Philippines in the upcoming 74th Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. This marks a full-circle moment, as Catriona Gray — Ahtisa’s Binibining Pilipinas 2018 batchmate — won the Miss Universe 2018 title in the same country.
RELATED STORY: Ahtisa Manalo Wins Miss Universe Philippines 2025 in an Emotional Triumph
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