Renowned Filipino designer Mak Tumang has revealed the inspiration behind Ahtisa Manalo’s striking gown for the Miss Cosmo 2024 Jury Session. In an Instagram post, Tumang explained that the gown, worn by the Filipina beauty queen, was inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of purity, strength, resilience, and rebirth.
Manalo graced the pageant stage in an elegant bright blue gown, accentuated with gold details. According to Tumang, the gown’s design reflects the essence of a lotus, which “emerges from the muck spotless, returns to the murky water every evening, and blooms by dawn.” The gown was crafted from soft, flowy chiffon and adorned with repousse brass metal details, giving it a luxurious yet delicate finish.
Tumang further referenced the simplicity of the gown’s design, aligning it with the principle of Occam’s razor, which suggests that “the simplest solution is almost always the best.”
Despite a sprained ankle, Ahtisa confidently strutted on the runway during the Jury Session. She also impressed in a neon yellow bikini for the swimsuit portion of the competition. Prior to the event, Manalo donned a national costume inspired by the iconic Filipino character, Dyesebel.
Ahtisa has already made notable progress in the pageant, winning the “First Station” of the People’s Choice voting and placing in the Top 3 of the “National Pride” stage. She now aims to win the “Big Bang” stage to secure a spot in the Top 10 of Miss Cosmo 2024.
The coronation night will take place on Saturday, October 5, and fans can continue to support Ahtisa by voting on the Miss Cosmo website.