Miss Universe PH 2024 candidate sets sights on Miss Florida USA title

Matea Mahal Smith is all set to compete in Miss Florida USA. Photo from matea.mahal/Instagram

The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2024 batch proves that it’s not over until it’s over, as yet another candidate sets her sights on achieving her Miss Universe dream this year.

Adding to the roster of queens still competing for the title is Matea Mahal Smith, who previously represented the Filipino community of Florida in MUPH and is now gearing up to compete in Miss Florida USA.

On June 25 (PST), the Miss Filipina International 2023 took to Instagram to share her official headshot for the upcoming American state pageant, expressing her excitement for the new challenge ahead.

“Not quite finished,” she stated, adding, “My official headshot for Miss Florida USA 2024!! So excited to embark on this new journey.”

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A post shared by Matea Mahal (@matea.mahal)

Support poured in from her MUPH sisters, including Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo, Miss Eco International Philippines 2025 Alexie Brooks, and Victoria Velasquez Vincent, who left encouraging comments on her post.

Fellow pageant crossovers like Jet Hammond, who recently finished in the top 16 in Miss California USA and Christina Dela Cruz Chalk, who is competing for Miss Universe Great Britain in July, also sent their best wishes.

The Filipino American beauty will represent her hometown of Coral Springs during the coronation night on July 7. The reigning Miss Florida USA, Caroline Dixon, will crown the new titleholder, who will then go on to represent Florida in the Miss USA pageant.

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A post shared by Matea Mahal (@matea.mahal)

In a separate post, Smith posted a carousel of photos reminiscing her journey in MUPH, captioning, “To all the people l’ve met, I thank you for making my journey even better! Four months ago l had no idea who you guys were but now I can’t see my life without you all as my friends. Thank you MUPH for introducing me to some amazing people! Until next time.”

Additionally, other crossover queens such as Hawai’i’s Bianca Tapia and Cavite’s Dia Mate have transitioned to Miss World Philippines 2024, aiming for one of its coveted crowns.