Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo
“I wanted to always play with my classmates but they would say hurtful things to me and I would go home crying,” Manalo admitted in an interview with ABS-CBN News’ Dyan Castillejo on Friday.
But because of her mom and stepdad who always reminded her to believe and stay authentic, Manalo learned to appreciate her color and discover the real value of her beauty.
“My mom and dad would say, ‘It’s okay, you are beautiful, don’t believe what they are saying. And if you want to play with them continue to do so,” she said.
Moving on from her childhood experience, Manalo found the assurance of love and support from her parents which shaped her confidence and led to her determination to pursue her goals in life.
At age 14, she started modeling to help the family finances. She graduated with a degree in Tourism at De La Salle Araneta University.
“I started saving so I could help my parents and pay for my college. ‘Pag kulang they would always support but I saved up for that,” she said.
Manalo bested 52 other candidates and will be representing the Philippines at the upcoming Miss
