UNIVERSAL Woman Philippines Maria Gigante, of Bantayan Island, Cebu won as Universal Woman 2024, besting the field of 44 delegates worldwide to succeed Valentina Sanchez Trivella of Venezuela, last year’s winner. She topped the final five that included finalists from Venezuela, France, Cambodia and Dominican Republic.

The final show, only on its second edition, was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Universal Woman national director Arnold Vegafria and Gigante’s parents, family and friends flew to Cambodia to watch her momentous victory.
Gigante, 30, gave a powerful answer in the question round, essaying “What does the Universal Woman mean to you?”
“To me, Universal Woman means the future. I learned from working with this organization that I want to live in a world that is filled with respect and collaboration, one that encourages us to step into our differences instead of ignoring them. And learn to harness them in order to effect positive social change. I want to be in this organization because I feel that I am not alone. I am one in an army of women who are ready and willing to make a difference, to support a world that is not only sustainable, but that stands for economic progress, and positive, inclusive social impact. If you are here tonight, welcome to the new era of beauty,” she said.
Lisandra Chirinos of Venezuela was first runner-up, while Elisa Mysyshyne of France was second runner-up. Cambodia’s Brianna Mai placed third runner-up, and Chabeli Tavora Peña from the Dominican Republic was fourth runner-up.
Prior to joining Universal Woman 2024, Gigante joined the Miss World Philippines (MWP) in 2022 where she finished as a finalist.
Last February 27, MWP Organization chairman and Universal Woman national director Arnold Vegafria crowned and bestowed the title of Universal Woman Philippines to Gigante, the first woman to be so honored.
Gigante was feted in simple rites at Kingsford Hotel Manila that was also graced by Valentina Sanchez, the reigning queen, and Universal Woman Organization consultant Alexander Gonzalez.
According to its official social media page, Universal Woman is a “platform that champions the unique brilliance and beauty of women making a positive impact in the world today.”
Qualified to join the pageant are women aged 25 to 45, regardless of their height, weight and civill status.