Photo via Miss Universe Philippines (@themissuniverseph) / Instagram
Chelsea Manalo, the first Miss Universe Asia, returned to the Philippines on December 20. Thousands of supporters welcomed her at the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City. The parade was a proud moment for Filipinos. They gathered to celebrate her groundbreaking achievement in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant held in Mexico last month.
Draped in an elegant gold gown by renowned designer Francis Libiran, Manalo rode through the streets in a white convertible, her warm smile lighting up the crowd. She waved both the Philippine flag and the pride flag, a powerful nod to her identity and advocacy. Fans filled the area with cheers, holding up banners and photos that celebrated her journey.
“Maraming salamat sa suporta, sa pagtitiwala n’yo sa akin,” Manalo expressed in gratitude, thanking her countrymen for believing in her.
Manalo’s victory resonates beyond pageantry. As the first black woman to represent the Philippines in the competition, her presence challenges beauty norms and inspires diverse representation. During the event, she stood tall as a symbol of resilience, talent, and hope for many young Filipinos.
She also achieved great success in the competition. Manalo made the Top 30 and won Best in National Costume through an online poll. Now, as Miss Universe Asia, she will work alongside the reigning queen, Viktoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark. They will engage in various global events over the next year.
For those unable to attend her Pasay parade, Manalo will make another public appearance at the “Lights of Christmas” park in Taguig City on December 21. This event gives more supporters a chance to celebrate a milestone not only for her but also for the nation.
Chelsea Manalo’s success shines as a beacon of what the Philippines can achieve on the global stage, therefore inspiring future generations to reach for greatness.
More…
- inment.inquirer.net/589969/thousands-gather-for-miss-universe-asia-chelsea-manalos-parade
- https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/other/miss-universe-asia-chelsea-manalo-gears-up-for-two-parades-this-weekend/ar-AA1wbVOK?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1