Chelsea Manalo, the 25-year-old Filipina beauty queen, recently reflected on her memorable journey at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant, where she was crowned Miss Universe Asia and made it to the Top 30.
In an interview with journalist Dyan Castillejo, Manalo shared the unexpected moment she found out she was named one of the four continental queens, a new addition to the pageant’s format. “It was a surprise. They took us [to] a room, then that’s when they announced to us that we have been selected to be the Miss Continental queens,” she said.
While schedules are still being finalized, Manalo revealed that she and the other continental queens will soon embark on travels alongside Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, to take part in various international initiatives.
Although Manalo did not advance to the Top 12, she expressed no disappointment, feeling instead a sense of accomplishment. “Honestly, I didn’t feel disappointed—I felt so proud of what I did,” she shared. “I know I did my best, I know I made the whole Filipino [community] proud because that was a hundred and twenty-plus girls. To make it to the Top 30 is already a privilege.”
Manalo also spoke about how the experience contributed to her personal growth. “’Yung growth as a person, mas nakita ko na mas matapang na siya, mas hindi na siya natatakot sa kahit anong challenges that would come her way,” she reflected. The fast-paced competition was an unexpected rush for her. “It’s such an adrenaline, hindi ko in-expect na ganun pala siya kabilis,” she added. “It was fun, I really did enjoy my time here [in Mexico].”
While her post-pageant plans remain open, Manalo looks forward to spending time with her family in Los Angeles and has expressed interest in possibly joining the entertainment industry.
The Miss Universe 2024 competition concluded on Nov. 17 (Philippine time), with Theilvig making history as the first Danish woman to claim the crown and marking Denmark’s first Top 5 placement since 1957.
