MANILA, Philippines – Three weeks to go before coronation night on April 17, the 40 candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2016 were formally introduced to the press at the Novotel Hotel in Cubao on Tuesday, March 29.

The ladies wore swimsuits from Pegarro Swim.

Reigning Bb Pilipinas title-holders Janicel Lubina (International), Rogelie Catacutan (Supranational), and Miss Intercontinental 1st runner-up Christi Lynn McGarry hosted the press presentation and expressed support for the candidates. Past title-holders were also present.

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who returned to the country days earlier for work and personal commitments, was also present, sharing words of wisdom to the the ladies.

A fashion show will be held on April 6,  and the Parade of Beauties on April 9. Coronation night will be on April 17 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

After some changes, here are the official candidates, who will vie for the titles to represent the country in international pageants. (IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas 2016 official swimsuit photos)

#1 Gail Ventic  

#2 Alexandra Faith Garcia 

#3 Angela Lauren D. Fernando 

#4 Kimberle Mae Licao Penchon

#5 Riana Agatha Pangindian

#6 Candy N. del Castillo

#7 Angelique Celine de Leon 

#8 Karen Ibasco 

#9 Roshiela Navarro Tobias 

#10 Jeslyn Santos 

#11 Nicole Cordoves 

#12 Edjelyn Joy Cay Gamboa 

#13 Joanna Deapera Eden  

#14 Paula Rich Bartolome

#15 Kristine Angeli Q. Estoque

#16 Vina Prulla Openiano 

#17 Priscilla Kimberley Dela Cruz 

#18 Sheena B. Dalo

#19 Maria Lina N. Prongoso

#20 Geisha Naganuma De Leon

#21 Jessica L. Gonzales

#22 Apriel Smith

#23 Angela Gene R. Valdes

#24 Niza Sabrina Sophia Limjap 

#25 Anjellica Lopez

#26 Jennifer Ruth Hammond

#27 Dindi Joy L. Pajares

 #28 Nichole Marie Manalo 

#29 Maria Mika Maxine Medina 

#30 Crescent Anne F. Samaco

#31 Kylie Versoza

#32 Jennyline Carla F. Malpaya

#33 Leonalyn dela Cruz 

#34. Sarah Christine Bona

#35 Mariella Castillo 

#36 Maria Gigante 

#37 Jehza Mae S. Huelar

#38 Angelica R. Alita  

#39 Sissel Ria Rabajante

#40 Christianne Ramos

All photos by Rob Reyes/Rappler  

– Rappler.com