ILOILO CITY – Love and destiny took center stage at the University of San Agustin (USA) as real-life couple Matt Andrew Daniel Sy Española and Vjan Ylsaia Gallinero were crowned Mister and Miss USA 2025 in a historic victory that inspired the Augustinian community.
Española, a Medical Technology student from the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, hails from General Santos City and is no stranger to pageants, having competed since his high school years. Meanwhile, Gallinero, a fourth-year Nursing student from the College of Nursing, Nutrition, and Dietetics, has an impressive pageant background, winning the 46th Carabao Carroza Festival Queen Search in 2018 at just 16 years old.
A Story of Perseverance and Redemption
Gallinero’s journey to the crown was one of patience and resilience. In 2022, she competed in Mister and Miss USA but fell short, finishing as 1st runner-up.
“I was frustrated and disappointed, but I accepted that loss with grace, knowing that beautiful things were yet to unfold for me,” she shared in an interview with Bombo Radyo Iloilo.
Despite doubts and fears, she took a leap of faith and joined again, proving that setbacks can lead to greater victories.
“This journey was not just about redeeming myself—it was also about fulfilling the dreams of my department and the people who believed in me from the very beginning,” Gallinero added.
Now, as Miss USA 2025, she looks forward to balancing her advocacy work with her studies, as she pursues her ultimate goal—becoming a registered nurse.
A Shared Dream, A Shared Victory
For Española, the victory was made even more special because he shared it with Gallinero. In an emotional message, he expressed his gratitude for her unwavering support throughout the competition.
“Vjan, we did it. We both had our doubts, and we both did it scared. Despite having your own practices, you were always there to remind me of the goal—to win. Seeing you on that stage and thinking about all the effort and sweat you put into the pageant makes me so proud. Wearing the crown with you makes me proud, not just as a fellow winner, but also as your biggest fan,” Española said.
With his title as Mister USA 2025, Española is now looking ahead to the next chapter of his journey—pursuing medicine.
Beyond the Crowns
As the newly crowned Mister and Miss USA 2025, Española and Gallinero aim to use their platforms to inspire and empower fellow students. Their story of perseverance, faith, and love is a testament that dreams, no matter how uncertain, can be achieved through dedication and resilience.
With their crowns held high and their aspirations even higher, this power couple is set to leave a lasting impact—both in the university and in their chosen fields.
