As Michelle Marquez Dee’s reign as Miss Universe Philippines draws to a close, she offers valuable advice to the candidates vying for her crown. Dee emphasizes the importance of staying true to their core values and remembering the reasons behind their pursuit of the title.
Emphasizing Core Values
At the “Sunkissed Runway” fashion show in Manila on May 17, Dee shared her insights with the aspiring beauty queens. “It’s the last stretch, so just make sure you double down on your trainings. Just remember your core, why you are here. What are you fighting for? Because at the end of the day, that is what will matter the most. Anong pinaglalaban ninyo (What are you fighting for) on the Miss Universe stage? Because as we all know, Miss Universe is an amazing platform to really create those positive changes all around the universe,” she said.
Dee’s words serve as a reminder of the deeper purpose behind the pageant, encouraging candidates to reflect on their motivations and aspirations.
Preparing for the Big Night
With the coronation night only five days away, Dee acknowledged the anxiety and pressure the candidates might be feeling. Drawing from her own experiences, she reassured them that these feelings are natural and that with time, they will become more comfortable.
“This is the last five days before the big night, and one of these girls is going to be the next Miss Universe Philippines. How are you all feeling? A lot of anxiety, a lot of pressure, I know how it feels, twice akong sumali eh (I joined twice),” Dee shared.
Reflecting on Her Journey
Before winning the Miss Universe Philippines title last year, Dee competed in the national pageant in 2022, where she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines-Tourism. She narrowly missed the main title, which went to Celeste Cortesi. Dee’s perseverance and determination throughout her pageant journey serve as an inspiration to the current candidates.
As her reign comes to an end, Dee expressed her reluctance to relinquish her title. “I’m definitely not ready to pass the crown yet. Feeling ko talaga iiyak ako (I will really cry) on stage. I mean, I always say that this is the end of a one-year reign, but also a closing chapter of a seven-year pageant journey. So once again, thank you so much,” she said.
Looking Forward to the Next Queen
Despite her mixed emotions, Dee is excited for the woman who will inherit her Miss Universe Philippines crown. She highlighted the hard work and dedication required, reassuring the candidates that their journey is just beginning. “Marami kayong gagawin, hindi pa talaga tapos ang trabaho (You will do a lot of work, your job does not end just yet). This is going to be the first step in an amazing journey for the rest of your lives. And take it from me, I have had such a wonderful year,” Dee said.
Final Words of Wisdom
Dee also urged the candidates to relax and enjoy the upcoming coronation night. “Just breathe, relax. [On] May 22, the only request I have for each and every one of you is to have fun. Just have fun and enjoy the night, because it is arguably one of the best Miss Universe Philippines productions to date, so you all are very, very lucky. So everybody that’s watching on the night, you are in for an amazing show,” she concluded.
Exciting Coronation Night
The 2024 Miss Universe Philippines coronation night will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on May 22. Emmy award-winning host Jeannie Mai, 2022 Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel, actor Alden Richards, “eventologist” Tim Yap, and actress Gabbi Garcia will host the event. Performances by Thai superstar Win Metawin, “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK vs the World” season 2 finalist Marina Summers, and Filipino pop band Lola Amour are also slated for the evening.
In addition to the Miss Universe Philippines title, four other national titles will be awarded: Miss Supranational Philippines, Miss Charm Philippines, Miss Eco International Philippines, and Miss Cosmo Philippines. The winner of Miss Universe Philippines will go on to represent the country at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year.
Conclusion: A Memorable Transition
As Michelle Dee prepares to pass on her crown, her heartfelt advice and reflections serve as a guiding light for the new batch of candidates. Her emphasis on core values and enjoying the journey underscores the true essence of the Miss Universe Philippines pageant.