Hardhat, Crown, and Courage: How Engr. Andrea Ravanzo Cayabyab Became Miss Universe Pangasinan 2025 and a Licensed Civil Engineer
From solving complex engineering problems to representing her province on the national stage, Engr. Andrea Ravanzo Cayabyab embodies the modern Filipina who refuses to be boxed into a single identity. A graduate of PHINMA University of Pangasinan, a November 2025 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination passer, and the Miss Universe Philippines Pangasinan 2025, Andrea’s journey is one defined by discipline, purpose, and courage. She stands as proof that a woman can confidently wear both a hardhat and a crown—without having to choose between the two.
From solving complex engineering problems to representing her province on the national stage, Engr. Andrea Ravanzo Cayabyab embodies the modern Filipina who refuses to be boxed into a single identity. A graduate of PHINMA University of Pangasinan, a November 2025 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination passer, and the Miss Universe Philippines Pangasinan 2025, Engr. Andrea’s journey is one defined by discipline, purpose, and courage. She stands as proof that a woman can confidently wear both a hardhat and a crown—without having to choose between the two.
Inspired by Legacy, Driven by Purpose
Andrea’s path to civil engineering began at home. Growing up with a grandfather who was an architect, she was exposed early to the world of design and construction. Yet as she matured, she realized her passion leaned less toward drafting and more toward problem-solving. Civil engineering became the perfect middle ground—honoring her Lolo’s influence while allowing her to embrace her own strengths and interests.
“I loved solving problems,” Andrea shares. “Civil engineering allowed me to do that while still being connected to the world I grew up admiring.”
From a Quiet Student to a Confident Leader
When Andrea first entered the civil engineering program, her only goal was simple: to finish the course. But college had bigger plans for her. Along the way, mentors—especially her instructors—saw potential she had yet to recognize in herself.
Despite being naturally shy, Andrea stepped into leadership and served as President of the PICE PHINMA UPang Student Chapter for the school year 2022–2023. That experience became transformative. Leadership taught her to speak up, make decisions, and believe in her capabilities—all while juggling the demands of a rigorous engineering program.
“That experience shaped me,” she reflects. “Not just as a leader, but as a future engineer.”
Balancing Dreams, Responsibilities, and Reality
Andrea’s student journey was far from easy. Time management became one of her biggest challenges. Aside from academics and organizational work, she was also active in modeling, endorsements, and pageantry. At times, these commitments required her to miss classes—but they also helped support her daily expenses, including her tuition.
Instead of giving up, Andrea doubled down. She used every free moment to catch up, study harder, and lean on her support system. Friends who shared notes, explained lessons, and stood by her side played a crucial role in her survival and success.
“I wouldn’t have made it without them,” she says with gratitude.
Grace Under Pressure
Burnout, pressure, and self-doubt were inevitable—but Andrea never let them define her. What kept her grounded was her clear sense of why: her dreams, her family, and the sacrifices made along the way. She learned the importance of pausing, breathing, and extending grace to herself during overwhelming moments.
Her faith also became a source of strength. Trusting that every challenge was preparing her for something greater helped her push forward—especially during the most demanding season of her journey: the board examination.
Setbacks, Strength, and Self-Belief
There were moments when Andrea questioned her path, especially while balancing two vastly different worlds—engineering and pageantry—each demanding a different version of her. The constant shifting wasn’t easy.
But in those moments, she discovered a powerful truth: she didn’t have to choose. She allowed herself to rest, reflect, and remember her purpose.
“I learned that a woman can wear both a hardhat and a crown.”
Beyond the Runway: Pageantry with Purpose
While many know Andrea as a civil engineer, fewer see how pageantry became another platform for her advocacy. As Miss Universe Philippines Pangasinan 2025, she carried with her the same values she practiced in engineering—preparation, responsibility, and service. Balancing academic rigor with the demands of pageantry required resilience, adaptability, and strong time management, skills that would later become essential in her board exam journey.
Rather than seeing pageantry and engineering as opposing worlds, Andrea embraced both. Each taught her confidence, discipline, and the importance of representing not just herself, but the communities and women who see their own dreams reflected in hers.
Words to Her Younger Self and to Future Engineers
If Andrea could speak to her younger self, she would say this: Trust the process. Believe in yourself more. Every challenge, leadership role, and unconventional path contributed to her growth—not just as an engineer, but as a person capable of inspiring others.
To future civil engineers, her message is simple yet powerful:
“This journey is not only about mastering equations and designs. It’s about becoming resilient, curious, and purposeful. Embrace the challenges, learn from setbacks, and never underestimate your ability to make an impact. The world needs engineers who build not just structures—but hope, opportunity, and inspiration.”