My name is Charieze Lianne Cacayorin, and I am currently a candidate representing Hawai'i for the esteemed title of Miss Universe Philippines 2026, which will take place in Manila, Philippines, in May of 2026. This prestigious event will allow me to represent the islands of Hawai'i and its large Filipino community.

Vying for the title of Miss Universe Philippines is more than just a personal ambition; it is a mission to empower our youth by preserving and promoting our Filipino culture. This title brings with it the resources and access needed to inspire our young generation to embrace their heritage and build a positive movement forward. It is a commitment to ensuring that the language, traditions, and values that our ancestors fought to preserve are passed down to future generations.

In just a few months, I’ll be temporarily moving to the Philippines for six months to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: representing our community on the national stage. From February to May, I’ll be competing in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant—an experience that requires not only heart and hard work, but also significant resources. Your support will help cover the essentials listed below:

Pageant Campaign Budget Breakdown

Training & Coaching

(Runway, Q&A, fitness, communication, and personality development over 6 months)

Wardrobe & Styling

(Evening gown, national costume, pageant outfits, shoes, accessories)

Hair, Makeup & Prep

(Skincare, beauty treatments, makeup artists, and glam services)

Photoshoots & Media Content

(Professional headshots, branding shoots, and digital content creation)

Travel & Transportation

(Transportation for pageant events, appearances, community visits, and domestic travel to my hometown)

Housing & Living Expenses

(Rent, meals, transport, and daily needs for a 6-month stay in Manila)

Advocacy Work

(Community projects, materials, outreach, events, and awareness campaigns)

Pageant Registration & Fees

(Application, registration, and official pageant-related costs)

Emergency & Contingency Fund

(For unexpected costs, extra materials, or last-minute needs)

Every gift, big or small, brings me one step closer to the crown—and to making our community proud.

All additional funds will be donated to the Youth Task Force program under the nonprofit Oʻahu Filipino Community Council, where I proudly serve as chairperson. This initiative empowers local youth through leadership development, cultural education, and community service—your support directly invests in the next generation of changemakers.

By supporting my journey, you are investing in a cause that fosters unity and cultural pride among Filipinos across the globe while providing opportunities for the next generation to achieve professional and leadership success. You are helping to create a legacy that honors the hardships and triumphs of our ancestors, guiding our community's youth to become proud and responsible bearers of our Filipino heritage.