Philippine beauty queen Fionna Raine Lisama has apologised after using live butterflies during a gown presentation that sparked accusations of animal cruelty. Representing General Trias City at Mutya ng Pilipinas 2026, she unveiled the insects during a charity gala at Fairmont Makati on 11 October. Video of the moment subsequently circulated online, shifting attention from her elaborate costume to the welfare of the butterflies.
Lisama acknowledged the controversy on Friday, 16 October, calling her decision a mistake. 'I acknowledge that it was a mistake and a poor decision, and I take full accountability for what happened,' she said in a public statement. She added that no intention could justify her actions.
The gala's theme, 'A Tribute to the Terno', invited contestants to showcase interpretations of traditional Filipino dress. The terno is distinguished by its structured, butterfly-shaped sleeves, a defining feature of Philippine formalwear. Lisama's white ensemble featured a textured, net-like skirt and flowing fabric, but the living butterflies became its most discussed detail.
Why Did Fionna Lisama's Butterfly Gown Spark Backlash?
In footage of the presentation, Lisama opens a shawl and several large butterflies emerge, fluttering around the stage. Some remain on or cling to the fabric while she begins dancing. The video does not establish whether any of the insects were injured, or what happened to them after the performance.
One Threads commenter wrote that they felt sorry for the butterflies, before asking, 'Animal cruelty?' Another questioned why live insects had been used in a costume and argued that the contestant should be disqualified. Others suggested artificial or mechanical butterflies could have created a similar effect, while one commenter pointed to their fragility.
The concern was not simply that the insects appeared unexpectedly. Butterflies have delicate wings covered in tiny overlapping scales, according to the organisation Butterfly Conservation. Improper handling can damage butterflies' wings, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History, although there has been no verified public account establishing injuries to those involved in Lisama's presentation.
Beauty Queen Apologises Over Live Butterfly Display
Lisama said the speed of events did not excuse the decision. 'I recognize that I was wrong and should have been more mindful of the welfare of these living creatures,' she wrote. She also said she was not attempting to justify her actions or make excuses.
The contestant described the incident as a learning experience and promised to exercise greater care in future decisions. 'I know that an apology alone cannot undo what has happened,' she said, acknowledging the concerns raised online. Her statement did not explain how the butterflies had been sourced or who was responsible for handling them before and after the display.
Philippine Pageants Have Faced Butterfly Criticism Before
The backlash follows a similar incident at Miss Grand Philippines in August 2025, when Caloocan City contestant Arianne Villareal released live butterflies during an evening gown presentation. Footage showed some butterflies on the floor during subsequent contestants' walks, prompting concerns about their safety. Villareal later said she intended the release to represent transformation and new beginnings, rather than cause harm.
Watch here: Footage of Mutya ng Pilipinas 2026 contestant Fionna Rainne Lisama's controversial gown presentation, featuring live butterflies.
Lisama's case has brought the same debate back to Philippine pageantry, this time around a garment already associated with butterfly imagery. Her apology addresses the decision to use living insects, but questions remain about the butterflies' treatment and fate. The performance has also prompted renewed discussion of whether pageant spectacle can be achieved without incorporating live creatures into costumes.
