Sara Jane Paez-Santiago Demise and Tribute: Binibining Pilipinas 1989 Titleholder Has Departed at

 Sara Jane Paez-Santiago Death and Obituary – The entertainment and pageant sectors in the Philippines are grieving the loss of Sara Jane Paez-Santiago, who was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe in 1989. She passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 57, just shy of her 58th birthday. The Binibining Pilipinas organization, alongside close friends, confirmed her demise, stirring profound sorrow among her followers, peers, and the national pageantry sphere that she represented so proudly on an international level.

The family has not publicly revealed the cause of her passing, requesting solitude while they cope with their grief. Although information regarding her death is scant, many tributes have emerged from fellow contestants, designers, performers, and fans who cherish her sophistication, kindness, and pioneering impact on the history of Philippine pageantry.

The official news of her death was communicated by the Binibining Pilipinas organization, which celebrated her legacy as a queen who represented the Philippines with “dignity and pride” and made a “significant impact in pageant history.” Fashion designer Renee Salud, a close friend, and actress Marina Benipayo were among the initial sources to confirm the sorrowful news, sharing their deep condolences for the loss of a cherished friend and icon.

Wake and memorial services for Sara Jane Paez-Santiago are taking place at the Santuario de San Antonio Parish in Forbes Park, Makati, from January 15 to January 18, 2026. A memorial mass is organized for Sunday, January 18, at 1:30 p.m., where family, friends, and members of the pageantry community will unite to celebrate her life, accomplishments, and lasting influence.

Sara Jane Paez gained national fame after winning Binibining Pilipinas Universe in 1989, which allowed her to represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant held in Cancun, Mexico. She is fondly remembered for her self-assured and engaging opening statement in Spanish, a moment that highlighted her intellect, composure, and ability to resonate with a global audience. Her participation contributed to enhancing the Philippines’ reputation as a formidable force in pageantry during that period.

Beyond her title, she had a rich personal life. She is survived by her spouse, Nicky Santiago, and their two children, Sarina and Alessio, who continue to honor her legacy and memory. Friends remember her not just as a beauty queen but also as a dedicated mother, wife, and caring individual who stayed humble despite her fame.

Her most recent significant television appearance took place in January 2024 when she joined her family on GMA Network’s Family Feud, providing fans with a rare look into her life outside of pageantry. That moment now serves as a heartfelt reminder of her warmth and her emphasis on family.

As tributes keep pouring in, Sara Jane Paez-Santiago is remembered not just as a titleholder but also as an emblem of Filipino elegance, honor, and pride. Although her passing creates a significant void, her contributions to Philippine pageantry will forever be cherished.