Bulacan's Chelsea Manalo is set to dazzle the world stage as she secures her spot to represent the Philippines at the prestigious Miss Universe pageant. The stunning victory follows a gripping showdown at the local competition where Manalo emerged victorious, outshining 52 other contenders in a marathon of glamour and grace.
The Mall of Asia Arena served as the battleground for this year's pageant, where Manalo's radiance and poise captured hearts, allowing her to clinch the crown. After over five hours of intense competition featuring various segments, Manalo's star shone brightest, earning her the coveted title.
Crowned by Miss Universe 2023 Top 10 Michelle Dee, Manalo is now on a mission to clinch the 5th Miss Universe crown for the Philippines. With her sights set on Mexico, where this year's Miss Universe pageant will unfold, Manalo is poised to carry the hopes and dreams of a nation eager for another moment of glory on the global stage.
Triumph and Trophies
Manalo's triumph wasn't just about the crown; it was also about the accolades and rewards that came with it. Host Jeannie Mai revealed an array of prizes awaiting the newly crowned queen, including the prestigious Megaworld Sam Rita award. Additionally, Manalo is set to become the ambassador for esteemed brands such as Philippine Airlines, Jell Life, Creamsilk, Search Fitness Lifestyle, PLDT Home, and Bingo Plus. Adding to her accolades, Manalo clinched the coveted Miss Jojo Bragais runway challenge during the preliminaries, further solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with.
A Mother's Pride
As Manalo basked in her victory, her mother, Contessa Manalo, couldn't contain her emotions. Overwhelmed with joy, she expressed gratitude and tears of happiness, witnessing her daughter's dreams come to fruition. "Sobrang saya ko po, naiiyak ako sa sobrang saya," she shared, thanking the heavens for her daughter's success.
Manalo's journey to triumph is marked by resilience and determination. Raised by her mother and stepfather after the untimely passing of her father, Manalo's victory is not just a personal achievement but a testament to her strength and spirit.
Stellar Runners-Up
While Manalo claimed the spotlight, other contenders showcased their exceptional charm and elegance, with Stacey Daniella Gabriel from Cainta securing the 1st runner-up position. Notably, the competition also crowned Alexie Brooks of Iloilo as Miss Eco International Philippines 2025, Maria Ahtisa Manalo from Quezon Province as Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024, Justine Tarah Marie Valencia from Baguio as Miss Supranational Philippines 2025, and Cyrille Payumo of Pampanga as Miss Charm Philippines 2025. These remarkable women, each representing different facets of beauty and grace, stood out among the stellar lineup of candidates, promising to shine on the international stage in their respective competitions.
