Philippine delegate Asia Rose Simpson performs 'Pandanggo sa Ilaw' at Miss World 2026

Philippine delegate Asia Rose Simpson performed the Filipino folk dance "Pandanggo sa Ilaw" during the Miss World 2026 "Dances of the World" showcase in Nha Trang, Vietnam, on Wednesday, Sept. 2. The 18-year-old youth advocate wore a pink "Traje de Mestiza" by designer Renel Suarez, featuring a floral headdress and candles in her hands and on her head. She was among 110 delegates presented in continental groups, with the Asia and Oceania group closing the show. Simpson has already secured a Top 40 spot by winning the "Head-to-Head" Challenge and earned placements in Top Model, Sports, Beauty with a Purpose, and third in Talent. She aims to become the second Filipino Miss World winner, 13 years after Megan Young's 2013 victory. The coronation is set for Sept. 5.