Bulacan’s Chelsea Manalo has been chosen to represent the Philippines at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant after a stellar performance at the local competition on Wednesday. The event, held at the Mall of Asia Arena, saw Manalo triumph over 52 other candidates in a pageant that lasted more than five hours and included various segments showcasing the contestants’ beauty, intelligence, and grace.
Manalo’s crowning moment came during the Top 5 question and answer portion, a critical segment that often determines the winner. When asked, “You are beautiful and confident, how will you use these qualities to empower others?” Manalo delivered a poignant and inspiring response that resonated with the judges and audience alike.
“As a woman of color, I have always faced challenges in my life. I was told that beauty has standards. But for me, I have always listened and believed in my mother, who taught me to always believe in yourself and uphold the values that you have in yourself,” Manalo began, her voice filled with emotion and conviction.
She continued, “Because of this, I am already influencing a lot of you facing me right now as a transformational woman. I have here 52 other delegates with me who have helped me be the woman that I am. Thank you.”
Manalo’s answer highlighted not only her journey and the challenges she has overcome but also her dedication to empowering others through self-belief and authenticity. Her acknowledgment of her fellow contestants emphasized the collaborative and supportive nature of the pageant community, further endearing her to the audience.
Following her victory, Manalo was crowned by Michelle Dee, who made it to the Top 10 in Miss Universe 2023. With this win, Manalo sets her sights on the global stage, aiming to secure the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown.
Her preparation for the international competition will undoubtedly be rigorous, but Manalo’s poise, intelligence, and heartfelt advocacy for self-empowerment position her as a strong contender. As she steps onto the global stage, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of her fellow Filipinos, who will be cheering her on every step of the way.
๐ ๐๐ฆ๐ฆ ๐จ๐ก๐๐ฉ๐๐ฅ๐ฆ๐ ๐ฃ๐๐๐๐๐ฃ๐ฃ๐๐ก๐๐ฆ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฐ
— Glenn Batrina (@GLNNBTRN) May 22, 2024
Question and Answer (Q&A)
Bulacan – Chelsea Manalo#MissUniversePhilippines2024#MUPH2024 pic.twitter.com/sWacxNTmzu
Manalo’s triumph is not just a personal victory but also a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and the ability to inspire others. Her journey from Bulacan to potentially becoming Miss Universe 2024 serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for many, illustrating that true beauty lies in the strength of character and the courage to uplift others.