IT MAY have been more than a month since Chelsea Manalo made history as the first-ever recipient of the Miss Universe Asia title from the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico in November, but throngs of Filipino well-wishers still trooped to her homecoming parade on Friday afternoon, Dec. 20.
Thousands of spectators lined up the pavement around the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City to welcome the queen, who was overcome by emotions upon seeing the massive turnout of people who cheered for her.
Wearing a gold embroidered gown with voluminous fabric jutting out at her sides created by famed designer Francis Libiran, Manalo boarded a white convertible that brought her around the vicinity to see her adoring fans.
She flashed her bedimpled smile as she waved the Philippine flag and the pride flag, while greeting her supporters, many of whom were carrying banners, placards, and photos.
Addressing the crowd, Manalo said, “Maraming salamat sa suporta, sa pagtitiwala n’yo sa akin (thank you for the support, the trust in me) to make it to Miss Universe 2024.”
The Bulacan-based model is the first black woman to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant. She advanced to the Top 30 and topped the online poll for Best in National Costume.
Manalo revealed that as Miss Universe Asia, she will work with the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) for one year alongside reigning queen Viktoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark, with international travel as part of her privileges.
Those who missed Manalo’s homecoming parade in Pasay City have another chance to see her in person. She will have a “Parade Walk” at the “Lights of Christmas” park at the TLC Park on Lakeshore Highway in Lower Bicutan, Taguig City, at 6 tonight, Dec. 21. (Armin P. Adina © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
