Ariella “Ara” Arida has spent over a decade in the spotlight, but her story goes beyond the glitz and glamour of pageantry. Born on November 20, 1988, in Alaminos, Laguna, Ara grew up in a family that valued both education and ambition.
She pursued a degree in chemistry at the University of the Philippines Los Baños—an unconventional background for a future beauty queen, proving early on that she was more than just a pretty face.
Her foray into pageantry began humbly, competing in Binibining Laguna before stepping onto a bigger stage at Miss Philippines Earth 2012, where she remained unplaced. But setbacks never defined Ara; instead, they fueled her.
She returned stronger in 2013 at Binibining Pilipinas, where she clinched the coveted Miss Universe Philippines crown. That same year, she made waves at Miss Universe, securing a spot in the Top 5 and finishing as 3rd runner-up—a testament to the Philippines’ dominance in global pageantry.
Beyond the Crown: Ara’s Evolution in Media and Entertainment
Unlike many beauty queens who retreat from the limelight after their reign, Ara expanded her reach, diving into entertainment and media. She took on roles as an actress, model, and TV host, appearing in various television programs and films.
Her notable projects included starring in “Sarap Mong Patayin” and co-hosting on “Wowowin.” She also graced fashion runways, showcasing Filipino designers, and even judged on “Asia’s Next Top Model.”
Ara’s career was proof that a Miss Universe titleholder doesn’t have to be confined to just pageantry—she can be an all-around media powerhouse.
But despite her success in entertainment, Ara’s heart never strayed too far from the world of beauty queens. She remained connected with the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization, mentoring candidates and supporting pageant hopefuls behind the scenes.
What seemed like casual involvement at the time would eventually lead to her biggest career shift yet.
A New Era: Ara Arida Takes the Helm at Miss Universe Philippines
On February 15, 2025, during the press presentation of the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates, Ara was announced as the new National Director of MUPH’s Training & Development. The news caught many by surprise, but for those who had followed her journey, it was a natural evolution.
“I know this is a big shoe to fill,” she admitted during her speech, “but not everyone knows that even from the start, on how Miss Universe Philippines started, I was there looking at them. I still get to talk with them. So I’m still involved in what’s happening, and I supported them from the very start.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from fellow beauty queens and industry leaders, including Jonas Gaffud, Janine Tugonon, and Katrina Llegado.
Ara follows in the footsteps of Shamcey Supsup-Lee and Gaffud, both of whom played pivotal roles in shaping the organization. Now, it’s her turn to lead.
With 69 candidates vying for the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 crown and a national pageantry scene more competitive than ever, Ara steps into her role with a clear vision: to develop not just beautiful women, but strong, purpose-driven individuals ready to take on the world.
As she takes on this new chapter, one thing is certain—Ara Arida is no longer just a queen. She’s a mentor, a leader, and a force driving the future of Filipino pageantry.
