At 19, Radha Marie Cabug may be the youngest candidate in the Binibining Pilipinas 2025 lineup, but the young stunner isn’t fazed by her age. Instead of feeling out of place among more seasoned contenders, she’s leaning into the experience as a rare chance to grow, learn, and represent young women finding their voice.
“Being young isn’t a hindrance to me. I think it’s a great opportunity to learn, especially since everyone around here is professional. They’re all very successful in their careers, and they balance pageantry as well. I just keep on learning every day,” Cabug said in a sideline interview during the press presentation held May 22 at Novotel Manila.
Representing District 2 of Las Piñas, Cabug shared that her experience so far has been shaped by the wisdom and support of her fellow contestants. She credits them for teaching her how to manage the demanding schedule of the pageant world and how to embrace her mistakes.
“I’ve learned a lot of life lessons. But I think what’s most important is to really learn that it’s okay to make mistakes. They’ve gone through it and they tell me, ‘It’s okay, there’s always next time.’ So, I believe in that,” she continued.
Though joining a national beauty pageant wasn’t originally part of her personal dream, Cabug sees the stage as a powerful tool for something greater.
“My dream was to become an inspiration to other young women, especially those who want to enter male-dominated fields. This is a great platform to push forward my advocacy,” the Las Piñas contender added.
Surrounded by experienced and poised candidates, Cabug admitted feeling intimidated at times. But she said that the environment has been humbling and eye-opening.
“You learn a lot. It’s a great opportunity to make sure you keep yourself grounded because you realize all these girls around you are just like you. We’re all going through things in life, we all have obstacles, and we get through them day by day,” Cabug told Manila Standard Entertainment.
Asked whether being 19 gave her an edge, Cabug acknowledged both the advantage and the challenges.
“There are many things I haven’t experienced compared to the other girls. It’s difficult, of course, since you’re learning every day. But I guess it’s a great experience,” she stated.
Cabug is one of the 36 official candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2025, vying for the crown at the coronation night happening on June 15, at the Araneta Coliseum.
