AYALA, Makati City — Former Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up Ariella Arida was named as the new national director of the Miss Universe Philippines Organization (MUPH) during the recent press presentation of the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates at the Shangri-la Makati hotel.

Right after her appointment, Arida expressed her gratitude for the new role given to her in leading the organization: “I know this is a big shoe to fill in," she enthused to hint her excitement on accepting the job.

"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 36-year-old beauty queen and former actress remarked.

Arida's appointment marks a new chapter for the MUPH Organization, as she takes on the responsibility of overseeing the country’s premier national pageant, which has consistently produced strong contenders in the highly acclaimed Miss Universe beauty pageant.