Triumph and controversy: Chelsea Manalo’s journey at Miss Universe 2024

Anne Jakrajutatip, the owner of Miss U, pins the sash on Chelsea Manalo, who won the Miss Universe Asia title, during the press conference following the final show in Mexico City. CONTRIBUTED

MEXICO CITY — As is often the case, when the Philippines fails to secure a spot in the Top 12 of the Miss Universe pageant, fans and enthusiasts have plenty to say. 

This year, during the 73rd edition held in Mexico City, the Philippines’ representative, Chelsea Manalo, who was widely anticipated to win, did not advance to the semifinals. 

However, an unexpected twist emerged during the post-show press conference: Chelsea was crowned Miss Universe Asia, one of four continental queens announced at the event.

Photo from the Miss Universe Organization

This recognition, typically reserved for the main winner, caught many by surprise.

So, what led to this unusual situation?

Dr. Melody Garcia, a motivational speaker and advocate for women’s rights from Florida, noted, “There seems to be a pageant within a pageant nowadays. Didn’t they do something similar when she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines? Other contestants became Miss World Philippines, etc., competing in different events?”

Adding to the discussion, Sheila De Forest, a designer and former beauty queen, clarified, “Miss World Philippines is a separate pageant. MUPH crowned other queens after the final show, assigning representatives for Miss Cosmo International, Miss Supranational and Miss Eco International.” 

But why was this announcement made only after the competition? De Forest explained, “They had to do a separate crowning because MUO does not allow other crowns during the main coronation of the national winner.”

Despite the celebratory news, not everyone was pleased with Chelsea’s recognition. Critics like Clifford Silagan, a teacher in London, and Chris Clarke, a veteran director from New York, voiced their confusion.

Chris Clarke / CONTRIBUTED

Clarke, who traveled to Mexico to support Chelsea, expressed disappointment that she received an award without making the Top 12, leading him and others to leave before the show concluded.

Inquirer.net USA reached out to Chelsea’s devoted fans who traveled from afar to support her. They pondered what may have hindered her from securing a coveted spot in the Top 12.

Adrian Martin, an airline industry professional, shared, “There was nothing specific that Chelsea failed to do. However, her energy and enthusiasm during the Miss Universe competition didn’t match the standout performance she delivered in the Philippines. Had she kicked it up a notch during the preliminaries, I’m sure she would have secured her well-deserved spot in the Top 12.”

AdrIan Martin / CONTRIBUTED

“Chelsea’s dedication and passion for representing the Philippines made her country proud, and that is what truly matters,” he continued. “It’s not that she failed; rather, she competed valiantly but couldn’t quite capture the coveted Miss Universe title this year.”

Teacher Roel Galendez Pagulong, a regular attendee of Miss Universe pageants since 2015, noted that while Chelsea’s performance was impressive, the judges’ individual preferences played a significant role.

“Regrettably, the stars didn’t align in her favor tonight,” he remarked. He suggested that had MUP crowned Cristy McGary, a Top 5 finish could have been within reach.

Roel Galendez Pagulong / CONTRIBUTED

Celebrity blogger MJ Racadio echoed similar sentiments, stating, “In my observation, her pasarela was somewhat weak during the live broadcast. However, she was a force to reckon with in Miss Universe Philippines. This year’s competition was incredibly fierce, and the fact that Chelsea represented her country means she is already a winner in my book.”

Celebrity blogger MJ Racadio with Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios / CONTRIBUTED

Despite the initial disappointment, Chelsea’s supporters took to social media to express their frustrations, with some blaming judge Michael Cinco for her failure to make the Top 12.

However, many defended Cinco, arguing that he was just one of a panel of judges in a complex selection process.

As the dust settles on this year’s Miss Universe pageant, Chelsea Manalo’s journey serves as a reminder that beauty competitions are as much about resilience and representation as they are about placements and titles. 

While the outcome may not have aligned with many expectations, Chelsea’s crowning as Miss Universe Asia underscores the myriad of paths to success and recognition. 

It’s a testament to her talent and determination, and one can only hope that this remarkable young woman will continue to shine brightly on the international stage.