Jennifer Barreto crowned Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2026

Jennifer Barreto, a 27‑year‑old from San Sebastián, was crowned Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2026 at the Bellas Artes venue in Caguas. The event featured performances by Elvis Crespo and a live audience, and the new queen received a range of prizes including a Genesis GV70, cash awards, and sponsorships.

Barreto announced that her reign will focus on promoting mental‑health awareness and demonstrating that motherhood does not limit personal or professional ambition. She is also a specialist in prevention for the U.S. Department of Defense, and she plans to use the Miss Universe Puerto Rico platform to raise awareness about emotional wellbeing for women and families. She will represent Puerto Rico at the Miss Universe 2026 competition, which is scheduled to be held on the island later this year.