Pageantry has long been a major part of the Philippines’ culture, symbolizing beauty, talent, and social awareness. These days, new initiatives are emerging to blend entertainment, fashion, and advocacy, creating fresh platforms for Filipino and global talents alike.
From left: Michelle Membrere (creator/founder), Maria Cristina Cuyugan (co-founder), Stevie Hearl (Adelaide), Jordan Michelle Smith (Melbourne), Gracie Baker (Sydney), Reniel Torres (co-owner, TopSupermodel Australia 2025)
Top Supermodel, a new international brand based in the Philippines that combines modeling and pageantry, was introduced by Michelle Membrere, Maria Cristina Cuyugan, and Reniel Torres. Membrere stated, “We are the first fashion brand to hold modeling competitions with a focus on public speaking. While displaying their modeling abilities, participants are also asked to speak about issues that are important to them. In fact, one of the segments is our version of a Q&A session, which will put their communication skills to the test.” This innovative approach emphasized the appearance, substance, and confidence.
When asked if they have received support from cultural groups or the government, Membrere responded, “Top Supermodel has also the LGU shows. An LGU show is a pocket event. We are going to four LGUs across the country. But the very, very first show in the Philippines is an LGU show. It’s going to be an auction.” These local government unit events are a way to connect with different communities and promote cultural pride and talent development.
Membrere, who mentored Miss Supranational 2013 Mutya Datul, highlighted the importance of collaboration, “Yes, we do have support in terms of hosting the event, in terms of promotions, but at the same time as again, it’s a cross-cultural event, so it’s a give-and-take relationship kind of event.” This reflects their intent to build partnerships that foster mutual growth and cultural exchange.
Filipino designer Michael Cinco is also involved, with Membrere sharing, “Michael Cinco is very interested as a judge for the competition. Very supportive naman talaga siya sa amin. Despite Michael’s success, Michael remains reachable. Mahal ko siya.” His participation underscores the event’s credibility and the close ties between fashion and talent advocacy.
During the launch in the Philippines, three Australian models joined the competition, wearing Filipino gowns that showcased cultural craftsmanship. Each shared their personal reasons for participating. Jordan Michelle Smith, new to modeling, described her experience as transformative, “To become the next top supermodel would truly be an honor,” she said. “I want to become an international teacher and use my Top Supermodel status to establish organizations that assist children in poor regions.”
Gracie Baker, with over ten years of modeling experience and a background in fashion and business, shared her motivation, “This competition can bring it to people’s homes and encourage women to get checked,” referring to her recent diagnosis of stage three endometriosis. “It’s about raising awareness and encouraging health checks.”
Stevie Hearl, an Indigenous Australian, emphasized her desire to represent her community: “I want to be a voice and an advocate for Indigenous children who don’t have one,” she stated. Her advocacy highlights the importance of representation and inspiring others to pursue their goals.
Looking ahead, Top Supermodel announced two major runway events in the Philippines scheduled for September 27 and 28 in Intramuros, Manila. These events, the Preliminary & International Runway and the TTSM Kaleidoscope, aim to showcase talent, promote cross-cultural initiatives, and stimulate socioeconomic advancement. They will involve collaborations with six LGUs, celebrating their cultural identities and contributions to fashion.
Additionally, plans are underway to establish the Australia-Philippines Art Skills Center, a dedicated space designed to uplift women, support the LGBTQ+ community, and empower youth by offering comprehensive education in fashion and arts.
The Top Supermodel Australia contest is also set to hold its preliminary competition in Manila this September. Membrere explained, “The 25 lovely contestants from Australia are coming to Manila for the pre-finals show. There will be no Filipino contestants in this competition. All models are Australians. And during the preliminary show, all the Australian contestants will wear Filipino creations.” This exchange promotes cultural appreciation and international collaboration.
When asked if Top Supermodel should be called a beauty pageant or a fashion show, Membrere clarified, “It’s up to the people to determine if we are a fashion show or beauty contest. We’re not going to define it. It’s all up to you guys. There is no category or proper terminology for us. Let the people judge, or let the public tell the story about us. You can call them models or candidates.”
The upcoming fashion events aim to elevate emerging talents and celebrate the uniqueness of cultural stories through runway shows and creative displays. Membrere added, “It promises to be a dazzling display of fashion excellence, highlighting both local and international designers.” The Kaleidoscope event will further showcase the contributions of LGUs, emphasizing their cultural importance to the fashion landscape.
The winner of the Australian contest will receive AUD 10,000 along with prizes from sponsors.
