Michelle Dee Bids Farewell as Miss Universe Philippines
Michelle Dee took her final walk as the reigning Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) queen in a poignant and symbolic moment, donning her iconic black Mark Bumgarner evening gown inspired by the legendary Filipino tattoo artist, Apo Whang-Od. The event took place early Thursday morning, marking the end of Dee’s memorable reign and her handover to the new queen, Chelsea Anne Manalo of Bulacan.
The Iconic Whang-Od Tribute Gown
Michelle Dee’s choice of attire for her final walk was a tribute to Apo Whang-Od, the esteemed mambabatok from Buscalan, Kalinga. The long-sleeved black gown, which she originally wore during the Top 10 of the 72nd Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador, features intricate indigenous tattoo art designs that evoke the spirit of Whang-Od’s work. The gown’s design includes elements resembling the face of a viper and a full skirt with a high slit, capturing the essence of bravery, beauty, and cultural heritage.
Dee described the gown as a homage to Whang-Od, calling her “a true icon and the last of her kind, a symbol of bravery, beauty, and inclusivity.” She emphasized the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage of indigenous tattoo art through her attire.
Reflecting on Her Reign
During her final walk, Dee expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her reign. She acknowledged the pivotal role of her family, friends, and supporters, as well as the people of the Philippines, in her journey. “My journey of a thousand steps began with all of you. And tonight, as we reach this incredible moment together, it feels like we’ve achieved something truly special,” she said.
Dee also took the opportunity to thank her design team, including Mark Bumgarner, who she previously called “the designer of my dreams,” and Michael Barrasi, the creator of her airplane-inspired national costume for Miss Universe. “Thank you on behalf of our country. Your designs will forever be cemented in our history books, and also forever tattooed in my heart,” she added.
Advice to Her Successor
In her heartfelt address, Dee offered advice to her successor, Chelsea Anne Manalo. “To the next queen, my best advice is to move and live with purpose. Be certain of who you are and why you are here. The crown will always be a symbol of triumph, but win or lose, it’s the lives that you touch that will really make a difference.”
A Legacy of Authenticity and Advocacy
Michelle Dee’s reign as Miss Universe Philippines was marked by her commitment to authenticity and advocacy. She shared how embracing her true self allowed her to fulfill the responsibilities of her title effectively. “This year is when I embraced my authentic self. I stopped trying to conform and started focusing on what it truly means to be Miss Universe Philippines,” she reflected.
A Historic Year
Michelle Dee’s year as MUPH was historic and celebrated. Aside from her Top 10 finish at Miss Universe 2023, she was the most decorated delegate, winning four special awards, including Best in National Costume. Her journey has been a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of representation.
Final Farewell
Dee concluded her reign with a message of collective success, highlighting the unity and support of her fellow Filipinos. “Together we have showcased the true power of our Bayanihan spirit. Thank you for seeing the potential in me and for rallying behind me when it mattered most,” she said. “This is our collective success. This is the country we are proud to call our home, and we will always be proud to call ourselves Pinoy. Maraming-maraming salamat. Filipinas, I am, for the last time, Michelle Marquez Dee, signing off.”