Chelsea Manalo, the country’s representative to this year’s Miss Universe tilt, was announced winner of the National Costume Award by pageant organizers on Saturday, two weeks after the international tilt concluded.
The national costume and preliminary competition show was held on Nov. 14 (Nov. 15 in Manila), two days before the coronation at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.
Following Chelsea at second place was Chile’s Emilia Dides, while Vietnam’s Nguyễn Cao Kỳ Duyên placed third.
“Proudly representing their homeland! The National Costume is a way for contestants to share their country’s story, traditions, and values with the world,” Miss Universe said.
It went on to add, “Thank you to all those who voted to help the Philippines win 1st place!”
Created by Manny Halasan, Chelsea’s national costume, titled Hiraya, depicted various aspects of Christian and Islamic faith, including an image of Our Lady of Antipolo at the back.
More, it also came with a beaded boat headpiece to symbolize the Manila Galleon trade that linked the country to Mexico from the late sixteenth century to the early nineteen century.
Chelsea commented on the post with the hashtag, “#PanaloSiManalo.”
Manny also took to social media to share his delight over the announcement.
He posted, “OMG Best in National Costume. Thank you Lord!!!!!!! Congratulations Chelsea Manalo.”
Chelsea ended her Miss Universe 2024 journey in the Top 30.
She was later crowned the first Miss Universe Asia.
