MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines' bet, Chelsea Manalo, failed to bring home the coveted crown of the 73rd Miss Universe during the Coronation Night on November 17, 2024 (Manila time).
Chelsea's journey in the Miss Universe pageant ended when she failed to advance to the Top 12 after securing a spot in the Top 30. While the beauty queen may have lost her chance at the crown, she won many hearts, as social media is now filled with heartwarming messages for her.
READ: Miss Philippines Chelsea Manalo ends her Miss Universe 2024 journey
As Pinoy pageant fans send her comforting messages, Chelsea seems to be handling the results like a true beauty queen - with grace and class. In a quick backstage interview with Chelsea right after the pageant, she shared that she gave it all for this pageant.
“Salamat. I did everything. Everything,” she said.
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She continued that despite the results, the Miss Universe journey was truly memorable and it made her a better person.
“I am so happy because it made me grow as a person. Being here with the other girls, it made me learn so many things. I can’t wait to go home to the Philippines, “ Chelsea added.
YOU DID SO WELL! YES, LOUDER. WE LOVE YOU, CHELSEA✨🇵🇭🔥
Posted by Chelsea Universe on Saturday, November 16, 2024
In a separate interview with Dyan Castillejo, she shared the same sentiments, expressing genuine gratitude for the experience, which she initially believed was impossible. She also feels so empowered and grateful to be surrounded by powerful women.
Chelsea Manalo interview right after ❤️🇵🇭 We are so proud of you #missuniversepress2024 #73rdMUpress #MUpress2024 #MissUniverse2024 #MissUniverse pic.twitter.com/6uixr8z28n
— Dyan Castillejo (@DYANCASTILLEJO) November 17, 2024
Chelsea said, “Never in my wildest dream will I be able to do so. I was just that little girl hoping that I’ll be waving in front of the Miss Universe stage, and I did. I did my best!”
The beauty queen also has a heartwarming message to all Filipinos who rooted for her and continue to believe in her.
“Maraming, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat sa suportang binigay niyo sa akin at sa tiwala, Patuloy tayong lalaban. That’s what Filipinos are, we’re so much more than who we are. We are very powerful inside our hearts,” she said.
SEE ALSO: Chelsea Manalo wins Miss Universe Asia 2024
For now, Chelsea plans to spend more time with her parents for a short vacation.
— Sally, The Summit Express