Almost five months since winning Miss Universe-Philippines 2024 in May, our radiantly gorgeous beauty queen, Chelsea Manalo, is set to leave for Mexico soon to compete for Miss Universe 2024 as she aims to bring home the fifth crown for our country.
But prior to her departure, ABS-CBN News correspondent Dyan Castillejo had the chance to catch up with the Pinay beauty queen in a recent episode of the news site’s online show “On Cue” published on its official YouTube channel last October 11.
Chelsea, who was ravishing in a green dress while wearing her Miss Universe-Philippines sash and crown, gleefully and articulately responded to the reporter’s questions, starting off with her preparations for the much-awaited upcoming competition.
According to her, aside from her pasarela training, she has also been practicing how to do her own hair and makeup, reviewing and enlightening herself about various issues that may be possibly asked in the “question and answer” portion, and learning more about the host country and its language, Spanish. Besides, her team has also prepared several gowns for the contest and a number of outfits for the other events that she and the other candidates have to attend once they’re already there.
She has been particularly studying more about Mexico’s churches since she believes that it’s something that Filipinos have in common or have deep connection with the Mexicans. She went on to hint that there’s a story to what she will also be wearing that she wants them to know about because “it’s really inspiring”.
“I’m excited that my parents will be watching live in Mexico for Miss Universe kasi may kaunting boost na rin ‘yon ng confidence. After knowing that they’ll be able to fly in Mexico, mas lalo akong nagkaroon ng eagerness to just be on that stage, smiling not just for the whole Filipino, but smiling because I know this is my parents’ dream for me at the same time,” she conveyed.
Chelsea reiterated that she’s 9 over 10 ready for the contest, leaving the remaining fraction to her fellow Filipinos from different parts of the universe, who she hopes will show their massive support for her by cheering for her and voting for her once the online fan voting begins.
As Dyan mentioned how she seemed to be not nervous but looked really confident, Chelsea told her, “I don’t really know where it came from. I think, it is just because of the experiences that I have been getting. But these are experiences that I enjoy kasi, that I’m not gonna go and experience something that I’m not fully committed, that I don’t fully want.”
She continued, “Kasi if you want something, you’re willing to put everything you’ve worked for. So, you’re not nervous at all, rather you’re excited, you’re happy. And this it what is happening right now. That’s why I don’t think I’m that nervous, but I’m more excited.”
The proud Bulakenya, who wishes to take home the Miss Universe 2024 crown not only for herself but for the country, also hopes to be able to create an impact on the world (the universe rather!) once she’s hailed as the grand winner.
“Of course, the impact that I wanna leave not just because I wanna be an influential woman, but I think it’s important that we get to be able to have a queen that can talk, can inspire, and can share a story. A story of what is the reality that is going on, who she really is – her core, her authentic self – because these are what makes a queen lovable, more relatable.
Before heading to Mexico, she’s going to fly first to Los Angeles, California, to undergo more training, to fit her gowns and all the materials that she will bring to competition, as well as to meet the Filipino community there, which she deems is important to get support from them.
When asked how she’s able to keep her natural character and her feet on the ground, Chelsea imparted the advice that her supportive parents have instilled to her. “My parents always told me naman to never change. Kung ano ang dumadating sa’yo, embrace mo ‘yan. But don’t have a big head kasi hindi naman ‘yan for life. Of course, what I am experiencing right now is a part of something bigger. So, if you still stay the same, then there would be so much more to come.”
Just like in every competition, it’s inevitable for her to take a peek at the profiles of her fellow candidates, whom she’s excited to meet and mingle with, since they have been all over social media. Even though it’s widely known in the world of pageantry that Latina beauties are usually the frontrunners, Chelsea assured fans that she will never let her guard down. Besides, she believes that more Pinoys are going to be there to personally cheer for her.
And lastly, when asked by Dyan if she’s currently in a relationship, she said that she doesn’t have a boyfriend yet. With regard to her type, Chelsea simply said that she’ll likely be attracted to nice guys.
Miss Universe 2024, which will be the 73rd edition of the highly prestigious beauty pageant, is going to be held at the Arena CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico, on 16 November 2024.
We’re rooting for you, Chelsea!
