MANILA, Philippines — Actress-mothers Kris Bernal and Chariz Solomon added another milestone to their careers after being named Mrs. Universe Philippines Ambassadresses for 2026 during the Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026 grand coronation night.
The two Sparkle stars were recognized during the event held June 28, at The Tent City Manila Hotel for representing the pageant's advocacy of empowering married women and mothers who continue to pursue their passions while balancing family life.
Bernal, who welcomed her first child, daughter Hailee Lucca, with husband Perry Choi in August 2023, has frequently shared how motherhood has transformed her perspective while continuing to juggle acting, business and family responsibilities.
Solomon, meanwhile, is a mother of three boys and has often spoken about raising her children alongside her career in show business. Following the ceremony, the actress-comedian reflected on the recognition in a heartfelt Instagram post, thanking the pageant organization, her Sparkle family, colleagues, loved ones and glam team.
"It was a night of beauty, love, appreciation, and a 24-inch waistline. It was literally breathtaking, everyone," Solomon wrote.
She said the recognition was especially meaningful because it was made possible by her family.
"Once again, I want to thank the Mrs. Universe organization for this recognition. And of course, I wouldn't truly be qualified for this if not for my children and their father. I love you, family!" she said as translated to English.
Solomon also shared a message of encouragement for fellow mothers, saying that becoming a mother should never mean giving up on one's dreams.
"Thank You, God, for creating a platform that recognizes mothers. Your dreams do not end when you become a mother. Are there fewer opportunities? Yes—but the most extraordinary ones are handpicked for you. Mabuhay ang mga INA! (Long live all mothers)" she wrote.
The pageant also crowned Fatima Figueroa Alvarez of Pampanga as Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026.
Joining Alvarez in this year's roster of titleholders were Scarlet Chua of Taguig City (MrsUPh Pacific Philippines), Clarie May Tamondong of Quirino Province (MrsUPh North Philippines), Casey Magne Dumlao of Abra Province (MrsUPh Western Philippines), Iris Ann Samar of Pasig City (MrsUPh Eastern Philippines), Janice Kathleen Marinao of Valenzuela City (MrsUPh Northeast Asia), Ria Canlas of Bulacan (MrsUPh North Pacific Asia), Hanna Sotto of Leyte (MrsUPh South Philippines), Theresa Puzon of Quezon City (MrsUPh Pearl of the Orient), Dee Laude of Batangas (MrsUPh Maharlika), Angelita dela Cruz of the Bicol Region (MrsUPh Culture), Joy Formoso of Little Brave Hearts (MrsUPh Heritage), Shenday Hansen of Washington State (MrsUPh Global Philippine Heritage), Carmel Evora Laylo of New Zealand (MrsUPh Global Pearl of the Orient), Theresa Brizuela of the Netherlands (MrsUPh Global Heritage), Elena Santos of Hawaii (MrsUPh Global Culture), and Susan Ventolero of Washington, D.C. (MrsUPh Global Tourism).
Mrs. Universe Philippines recognizes married women and mothers who exemplify leadership, confidence and service while inspiring others to pursue personal and professional aspirations alongside family life.