As the Miss Universe Philippines pageant approaches its final days, reigning queen Michelle Marquez Dee shared some words of wisdom for the aspiring candidates vying for her crown. Speaking at the “Sunkissed Runway” fashion show in Manila, Dee advised the contestants to focus on their core motivations and reasons for competing.
With just five days left before the crowning of the next Miss Universe Philippines, Dee, who took the runway alongside the 53 delegates, reflected on her own pageant journey. Having first competed in the national pageant in 2022 and eventually winning the Miss Universe Philippines title last year, Dee emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself and one’s goals.
While Dee did not reveal her pick for her successor, she expressed her belief in destiny and acknowledged that any of the delegates could emerge victorious. Despite her impending relinquishment of the crown, Dee admitted that she is not quite ready to pass it on and anticipates an emotional farewell on stage.
Having trained rigorously for the pageantry scene and previously winning the Miss World Philippines title in 2019, Dee encouraged the incoming queen to embrace the transformative journey that awaits her. As the Miss Universe Philippines pageant gears up for its coronation show on May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the stage is set for a spectacular event featuring top-tier hosts and performances.
The winner of the Miss Universe Philippines crown will go on to represent the Philippines in the upcoming 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico. Additionally, four other titles—Miss Supranational Philippines, Miss Charm Philippines, Miss Eco International Philippines, and Miss Cosmo Philippines—will also be awarded during the ceremonies.
Amidst the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming pageant, Dee’s parting words to the aspirants were simple yet profound: “Just breathe, relax. On May 22, the only request I have for each and every one of you is to have fun. Just have fun and enjoy the night, because it is arguably one of the best Miss Universe Philippines productions to date, so you all are very, very lucky.”
