Filipino-Australian beauty queen Kathleen Enid “Kai” Espenido, known for her appearance in Pinoy Big Brother, is among the official candidates for Binibining Pilipinas 2025, representing the island of Siargao.
Behind her poised presence on stage is a compelling story shaped by personal loss and life-changing challenges.
The 21-year-old surfer, actress, and fashion model, who currently holds the Miss Fit Philippines title, lost her father, Frank, during her teenage years. Shortly after, Typhoon Odette struck Siargao in 2021, damaging their family’s livelihood. Her mother, Liezl, was left to run their hostel while raising the family on her own.
To support them, Kai left for Manila and joined the reality show Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10.
“Still reeling from my dad’s passing, Typhoon Odette ravaged Siargao and left us with nothing. As the eldest, I knew I had to do something,” Kai said.
“It was a good thing that I joined because I learned how to react to situations better, and the experience boosted my self-confidence,” she carried on.
Using the cash prize she received from the reality show, she began rebuilding her family’s life in Siargao while inspiring others with how, from zero and despite the struggles, she has helped herself and her family. Now, their hostel is thriving again.
Though she initially dismissed pageantry, Kai said seeing Catriona Gray win Miss Universe in 2018 inspired her to consider a similar path. After joining Mutya ng Butuan and finishing first runner-up, she committed to competing seriously.
“I was one of the few bi-racial girls in Siargao at the time, so my fellow islanders often teased me to become an actress or a beauty queen. But I was very young, and I didn’t take it seriously,” Kai shared.
As she prepares for the national pageant, Kai is undergoing intensive training under Reign Project Management, which includes sessions in fitness, styling, question-and-answer, and personality development.
“I’m blessed to have amazing mentors and a team with me every step of the way. I just need to focus on myself, be religious in my fitness training, and be mindful of my decisions,” Kai noted.
Outside of pageantry, Kai launched the KAI Project—short for Knowledge, Action, and Inspiration—on her birthday earlier this year. The initiative supports vulnerable communities, including single mothers and underprivileged children. She recently visited Nayon ng Kabataan in Mandaluyong, where she donated hygiene kits to about 100 children.
“It’s important to create a supportive community that fosters growth and resilience,” the aspiring Binibini emphasized.
Kai also plans to launch a swimwear brand and pursue a career in fashion. Looking back on past body-shaming, she shared, “No one deserves that, but I’m grateful because it pushed me to focus on the positive. I may never be enough for others, but for myself and those who love me, I am more than enough.”
Binibining Pilipinas 2025 will take place on June 15 at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.