Miss Universe Philippines dismisses delegate over repeated conduct violations in 2026
The Miss Universe Philippines Organisation (MUPH) has removed one of its delegates from this year's competition. Announced on 28 March 2026, the decision followed repeated breaches of conduct, though the organisation has not named the individual involved. The move has triggered widespread speculation, with much focus falling on a single contestant.
MUPH confirmed that the delegate was dismissed due to ongoing behavioural issues. These included persistent violations of organisational policies, unprofessional conduct during training—such as lateness and disruptive actions—and a failure to meet the expected code of conduct. Unlike past controversies involving social media disputes or eligibility debates, this case centred solely on personal conduct.
The organisation stated that the delegate had received guidance to correct her behaviour. However, her actions continued to fall short of MUPH's standards, leading to her removal from the competition. Attention quickly shifted to Imelda Schweighart, the contestant representing Kalibo, Aklan. Observers noted that her images had been removed from some official materials, and she no longer appeared in a tourism video linked to the pageant. Schweighart, who has a history of pageant controversy—including her 2016 Miss Earth participation, where she criticised fellow contestants over cosmetic enhancements—posted a cryptic message on social media. She wrote that her journey would continue despite the ongoing speculation. MUPH has not confirmed Schweighart's involvement in the removal. As of now, the identity of the dismissed delegate remains undisclosed by the organisation.
The removal has left questions unanswered, with MUPH maintaining silence on the delegate's name. The decision highlights the organisation's strict stance on conduct, while online discussions continue to centre on Schweighart's situation. The pageant will proceed without the unnamed contestant, who is no longer permitted to take part.
