Kauai Filipina pageant awards $18,000 in scholarships, crowns new queen

Saebrie Pegeder won the 66th Miss Kauai Filipina Scholarship Pageant on June 20 at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall in Līhue, and the Kauai Filipino Community Council handed out more than $18,000 in scholarships the same night. The crown came with a $3,500 scholarship package.

The contest centered on Lumalaban: A Filipina with a Purpose. Pegeder also collected special awards in photogenic, popularity, swimsuit, judges’ interview and best speech.

The rest of the scholarship money was spread across the other finalists. Storm Mahn, a Kauai High School graduate from Kōloa, won the Talent phase and was named First Princess with a $2,500 scholarship. Venice Anuada of Kapaa was crowned Miss Congeniality and Second Princess and received a $2,000 scholarship package. Janelle Padron of Waimea High School took Third Princess honors and a $1,500 scholarship package; she said she planned to use it at Chaminade University toward a nursing goal.

Days earlier, the 2026 field included Padron, Anuada, Mahn and Pegeder, and the buildup included a free cultural event on June 16 at the Kukui Grove Center food court stage. Ticket sales were also part of the competition.

Bailes de Jose Philippine Dance Troupe, founded in 1967 by the late Jose E. Bulatao, Jr., performed in the pageant’s cultural program. KFCC, established in 2000 as a volunteer organization focused on leadership, personal development, volunteerism and community service, supports local students through the pageant and its scholarship program. Applicants must be Kauai County residents of Filipino ancestry and graduating seniors from Kauai schools.