Makati’s Michelle Dee will conquer another international pageant for the second time as she wins the Miss Universe Philippines crown tonight
Started from the world and now headed towards the universe! Makati City’s Michelle Marquez Dee takes home the crown tonight after her comeback in the Miss Universe Philippines stage, besting 38 delegates this year.
Tonight, Michelle also bagged the “Best in Evening Gown” award for her Mark Bumgarner gowns in the preliminaries and in the coronation finale. On stage, she donned a black minimalist gown with slit draping and a bejeweled strap. Keeping it clean and classy, she opted for a sleek, mid part updo and red lip. Michelle also bagged several awards in the preliminaries, gaining the favor of the judges and sponsors.
RELATED: Michelle Dee’s Winning Gown was Actually for the Preliminary Round
After being called last in the top five roster, Michelle advanced to the final round with a back-to-back question and answer portion. In the first question, judge Sam Verzosa delivered the question to Miss Universe Philippines 2023: “Income inequality is still high in the Philippines. The gap between the rich and the poor remains. How do we close that gap?”
Michelle responded, “I think first, we have to recognize what we have and the privileges that we have such as food, education, and homes. I think the best way to address this is through education, because education holds no status quo. And every Filipino child has the right to education, but not just any education but quality education. Because I believe [that] if the government can provide this to every Filipino child, then we cannot only elevate their quality of life but we can empower them as well.”
In the second question about tourism’s new branding campaign, the Miss Universe Philippines queen emphasized the Filipinos as the greatest natural resource of the country. “The Philippines is home to very beautiful natural resources. From the beaches, the mountains, but I firmly believe that the best natural resource that the Philippines has is us Filipinos. We are the true heart and soul of the Philippines. With the way we are hospitable, with the warm smiles, and we are the reason why the world keeps coming back for more. No matter where the universe takes me, I will always be proud to call the Philippines my home. And no matter what happens, I will always be proud to call myself Pinoy,” she answered.
Practicing the use of voice that she preaches, Michelle has used her own platforms to advocate for different causes such as autism awareness, justice and equality for the LGBTQ+ community, and environmental welfare.
The new Miss Universe Philippines 2023 will head to El Salvador to compete for the Miss Universe crown in the coming months.
Congratulations to Michelle, the new Miss Universe Philippines queen!
Photography and Featured Image: DOC MARLON (via Instagram)
Gown by MARK BUMGARNER
Makeup by DAVE QUIAMBAO
Hair by NELLY TOLENTINO
Styling KENNETH RAMIL
