Chelsea Manalo bids farewell to her Miss Universe PH 2024 reign: 'My journey does not stop here'
Chelsea Manalo has nothing but gratitude after she wrapped up her Miss Universe Philippines 2024 journey.
On Instagram, the Bulakenya beauty queen looked back on her journey anew, sharing portraits of herself wearing a lilac gown by Manny Halasan.
“From the moment I was crowned, I knew this was more than just a title, it was a responsibility, an opportunity to inspire, and a chance to grow,” she said.
"Throughout, I have had the privilege of meeting incredible people, of being given a platform to support meaningful causes, and to represent not just myself, but a community that I cherish deeply."
She added that the whole journey contributed to her growth as a woman and as a leader.
“Though my reign is ending, my journey does not stop here. I will carry the lessons, memories, and friendships with me forever,” Chelsea wrote.
“Thank you all for making this an unforgettable experience.”
Chelsea won the Miss Universe Philippines title in May 2023, making her the first Filipino-Black American to win the title. She represented the country at the international pageant in Mexico, where she finished in the Top 30.
Despite not winning the country’s fifth crown, the Bulakenya beauty queen made history as the first Miss Universe Asia—one of the pageant's continental crowns. Joining her were Nigeria's Chidimma Adetshina, Finland's Matilda Wirtavuori, and Peru's Tati Calmell, who were named continental queens for Africa & Oceania, Europe, and the Americas, respectively.
On May 2, she passed on the crown to her successor, Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province, at the recently concluded Miss Universe Philippines 2025.
