In a groundbreaking moment, Chelsea Manalo was crowned Miss Universe Philippines, becoming the first Black Filipino woman to win the title.
This historic win is being celebrated for shattering traditional beauty standards in the country.
Manalo, a 24-year-old Filipino American, emerged victorious from a pool of 53 contestants.
During the competition, she shared her personal struggles with bullying and self-acceptance, inspiring others with her confidence and beauty.
“As a woman of colour, I have always faced challenges in my life. I was told that beauty has standards, actually,” Manalo said in her winning speech, adding that she was taught to “believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have.”
This win marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards more inclusive and diverse beauty standards.
As she prepares to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this September, Manalo is poised to make a lasting impact on the global stage.
Her win comes at a time when the Miss Universe organization is facing scrutiny, making her victory all the more significant.
