Binibining Pilipinas Best in National Costume Through the Years

Photos from Binibining Pilipinas Facebook page | Edited by John Angelo Obillos

One of the most commendable pre-pageant segments of the Binibining Pilipinas (BBP) is the National Costume Competition where candidates will showcase their team’s creations inspired by Filipino culture and traditions.

This segment is not a major factor in clinching one of the BBP’s crowns, but a special award called “Best in National Costume” is given during the coronation night for one lady who stood out in the NatCos competition and will mark in the BBP’s history.

Let’s look at the winners of Best in National Costume through the years.

2022 Binibing Pilipinas

Graciella Lehmann from Oriental Mindoro bagged this year’s NatCos award for her gigantic Tikbalang costume designed by Paolo Ballesteros.

Photo | Binibining Pilipinas Facebook page

Paolo described the costume as “fashioned with intertwined branches of Balete tree that forms the horse head and butterfly sleeves”.

“The body is adorned in lace with white pearls and rhinestones flickering like diamonds that will captivate anyone who may glimpse at this elusive mythical creature”, he added on Instagram.

2021 Binibining Pilipinas

Miss Nueva Ecija, Ma. Ruth Erika Quin won the 2021 NatCos award for her Erjohn Dela Serna costume representing the fields of Central Luzon.

On Instagram, Quin explained that this is a tribute to the hardworking, dedicated, and strong farmers who are the reason why we have food on our tables.

Note: There was no Binibining Pilipinas coronation held in 2020 due to the pandemic.

2019 Binibing Pilipinas

A Richie Sabinian creation called ‘Fe Esperanza Caridad’ worn by Emma Tiglao, a Kapampangan, bagged the 2019 NatCos award.

Tiglao’s costume is made of fabric done with the help of the inmates from the Angeles City Jail.

2018 Binibining Pilipinas

Catriona Gray, Miss Universe 2018, won the NatCos award in 2018 with her Maranao Muslim Princess costume by Jearson Demavivas.

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A headpiece made of pure brass and gems, and a custom umbrella weighing 4-5 kilograms made of pure stainless steel, completed this costume.

2017 Binibining Pilipinas

Chanel Olive Thomas of Nueva Ecija won the 2017 NatCos award for her gold ensemble costume.

Maranao Muslim tribe of Mindanao is also the inspiration for this Edwin Uy masterpiece.

2016 Binibining Pilipinas

Angela Lauren Fernando from Pampanga won the 2016 NatCos award with her black accented terno costume completed with a blue headdress by Frederick Peralta.

2015 Binibining Pilipinas

Also a Frederick Peralta creation, a white terno worn by Teresita Ssen Marquez from Parañaque won the 2015 NatCos award.

These costumes are one of the best creations from their respective years. Although only one will win the Best in National Costume award, every year is a rain of craftsmanship and artistry.