PH’s Asia Rose Simpson places third in Miss World 2026 talent competition

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 28, 2026

Photo courtesy: Pageant Bulletin

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines’ Asia Rose Simpson placed third in the Miss World 2026 Talent competition after delivering an original contemporary dance performance in Nha Trang, Vietnam.

The 18-year-old Miss World Philippines representative performed “Succor,” a piece combining contemporary dance, choreography and gymnastics. The performance portrayed a journey from feeling lost to finding hope and healing through faith, while also highlighting mental health struggles.

England’s Grace Richardson won the Talent competition with her rendition of “Over the Rainbow,” while Guadeloupe’s Annaelle Ibo finished second with “La Vie en Rose.” Simpson rounded out the Top 3.

The talent finals were held Aug. 25 at the Khanh Hoa Children’s Cultural Palace in Nha Trang, where 23 contestants competed after advancing from the preliminary round. Richardson’s win secured her a direct spot in the Miss World Top 40.

Simpson said she was surprised and grateful to finish in the Top 3, describing the Talent challenge as one of her favorite parts of the competition.

“I honestly didn’t know whether I was gonna make it in the Top 5 or Top 3,” Simpson said. “It was such an incredible honor.”

She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the Philippines and her family through her performance.

The result adds to Simpson’s strong showing in the competition. She had earlier secured a place in the Miss World Top 40 through the Head-to-Head Challenge for Asia and Oceania and also reached the Top 24 of the Sports Challenge.

Simpson, crowned Miss World Philippines in February, is aiming to become the country’s second Miss World titleholder after Megan Young won the crown in 2013.

The Miss World 2026 coronation night is set for Sept. 5 in Nha Trang.