A pair of stunning beauties with inspiring stories to tell claimed the two titles at stake at the 61st edition of the prestigious Binibining Pilipinas search.
Katrina Anne Castañeda Johnson, a 27-year-old Filipino-American from Padada, Davao del Sur, made her province proud after capturing the Binibining Pilipinas-International 2025 crown. It was sweeter the second time around for the Davaoeña, who was first runner-up in the same pageant in 2023.
Annabelle Mae Tate McDonnell, a 25-year-old native of Iligan City who was born in the United Kingdom, won the Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2025 title, following her first runner-up finishes in the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 and Miss Charm International 2023 pageants.
Johnson, a holder of a master’s degree in clinical pharmacy from the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC), dedicated her win to her late mother, who was instrumental in her forays into the world of pageants. She began her journey by winning Miss UIC Intramurals 2015 and Miss Silka 2016.
An animal lover who takes care of 13 dogs, Johnson advocates for accessible healthcare for her countrymen. She has volunteered in medical charity work in her hometown, having been exposed to the harsh realities of the country’s healthcare system, especially for poor Filipinos.
“I can’t believe this is happening, and I’m so grateful. This is all for my mother, who was my inspiration. Before, I was just new and looking up to those beauty queens. Now I have put myself in the same category,” said Johnson after her victory.
McDonnell, who graduated cum laude with a degree in Consular and Diplomatic Affairs from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, grew up in Iligan City as an orphan raised by her uncle. At a young age, she had to work early to provide for her family and education by selling bread and used clothes around the neighborhood.
McDonnell, who started in local pageants by winning Miss Iligan 2018 and Miss Lanao del Norte 2019, previously worked as a radio host promoting youth socio-political awareness and as a special operations officer at the Office of the Mayor of Iligan City. She has volunteered with the Save the Children Philippines organization, which supports vulnerable children to have a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn, and protection from harm.
“Speaking as someone who experienced involuntary hunger and malnourishment as a child, I always tell these children that I wish they would never go hungry another night,” McDonnell has promised as a volunteer to give voice to underprivileged children.
Johnson will compete in Miss International 2026 in Tokyo, Japan, while McDonnell will vie for the Miss Globe 2025 crown in Albania.
