Trailblazing Beauty Queen Breaks Barriers
Chelsea Anne Manalo, a 24-year-old model from Bulacan, has made history by becoming the first black Filipino-American to represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant. Manalo triumphed over 52 other contestants during the coronation night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
“As a woman of color, I’ve always faced challenges in my life. I was told that beauty has a standard. But for me, I have listened to always believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have in yourself,” Manalo shared during the Q&A segment.
Journey to the Crown
Manalo’s journey to the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown began at the age of 14 when she started modeling. She previously placed in the top 15 of the Miss World Philippines 2017 pageant. The 24-year-old beauty queen was raised in Meycauayan City, Bulacan, by her Filipino mother and American stepfather after her biological father passed away.
A tourism graduate, Manalo is passionate about youth empowerment, with a focus on children’s education, especially among indigenous communities. Her determination to break barriers and challenge beauty standards resonated with the judges and audience during the competition.
Making History on the Global Stage
Manalo’s historic win paves the way for her to represent the Philippines at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year. She succeeded Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee, and will carry the hopes of the nation as she competes on the global stage.
The coronation event was hosted by renowned personalities, including Alden Richards, Gabbi Garcia, Tim Yap, Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel, and American television personality Jeannie Mai. Performances by RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs. The World top 4 drag queen Marina Summers, Filipino rock band Lola Amour, and Thai actor Win Metawin added to the evening’s excitement.
