Filipina African American makes historic win as Miss Universe Philippines 2024

MANILA, Philippines — Chelsea Manalo of Bulacan was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024, besting 52 other hopefuls at the close of glitzy ceremonies in Pasay City.

Outgoing titleholder Michelle Marquez Dee passed on the beautifully crafted La Mer de Majeste crown to the dusky Bulakeña as the first national winner who is Filipina-African American, who won the title on her first try.

Days leading to the pageant, fans were mouthing "Manalo" as the eventual winner - referring to the one from Southern Luzon. True enough, a "Manalo" did win but the one from North Luzon.

A dark horse, in the truest sense of the word, though not alluding to her skin color, Chelsea was beneath most of the prediction radars, probably because she was a first timer to the national stage. She came out of nowhere to win the most coveted title. 

The "Walk, Win" video from shoe sponsor Jojo Bragais sort of gave a glimpse into her huge potential. And when she was proclaimed Miss Bragais, pundits began to reconsider their respective bets.

Cainta's Stacey Daniella Gabriel was proclaimed 1st runner-up.

Fan-favorite Ma. Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province was awarded 2nd runner-up and was crowned Miss Cosmo Philippines. She was the most awarded delegate at the preliminaries. Ahtisa was named Miss Acqua Boracay, Miss Smilee Apparel, Miss Fairy Skin, Miss I-Color Great Lengths, Miss Danielito's Home Kitchen, Miss Queen of Hearts Sleepwear Collection, Miss Hellow Glow, and one of Zonrox's Colorsafe Top 3 winners.

Baguio's Tara Valencia was proclaimed 3rd runner-up and was crowned Miss Supranational Philippines. Meanwhile, Alexie Mae Brooks was crowned Miss Eco Philippines and Cyrille Payumo was crowned Miss Charm Philippines.

Taguig's Christi Lynn McGarry was named 4th runner-up. She was also proclaimed as Miss So-en and Miss Jewelmer during the preliminaries. Since she has aged out from the four more titles of the evening, she didn't get an appointment.

Thai sensation Win Metawin serenaded the finalists during the evening gown competition.

The other ladies who made it to the Top 10 were:

While Runway challenge winner Angel Rose Tambal (Leyte), Swimsuit challenge winner Patricia Bianca Tapia (Hawaii),