CEBU, Philippines — Sophia Mendiola, Miss Asia Pacific USA 2026, is representing the United States at Miss Asia Pacific International as the competition moves through its Cebu events ahead of the Oct. 10 coronation night.
Mendiola is among 38 delegates competing this year. The Southern California-based Filipino American has a background in professional dance and pageantry.
Miss Asia Pacific International traces its history to 1968, when the Philippine-founded competition debuted as Miss Asia Quest. It expanded in 1984 to include countries around the Pacific and became Miss Asia Pacific Quest, then adopted its current name in 2005 as participation widened beyond the region.
The competition’s first major media event this year was held Sept. 26 at NUSTAR Resort in Cebu, where Philippine representative Gabrielle “Jiji” Galapia was named Darling of the Press. Denise Martinez of Honduras placed first runner-up in the media selection, followed by Thailand’s Sasiwararin Atsawahirankarn.
The delegates presented their national costumes the following day at the Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City. Sandeepa Sewmini Don Samarasinghe Disanayake of Sri Lanka won Best in National Costume, with Galapia placing first runner-up and Cambodia’s Ry Srey Neth second runner-up.
Candidates are continuing with scheduled activities around Cebu before the preliminary competition on Oct. 6 at Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark.
