In an exclusive interview with MEGA, Michelle Dee shares her Miss Universe preparations and her plan on how to bring the crown back to the Philippines
As the Miss Universe excitement sweeps over us, the spotlight is on Michelle Dee. Before her journey to El Salvador, the 28-year-old beauty queen sat down for an exclusive interview with MEGA where she opened up about the hard work and determination she’s poured in since her Miss Universe Philippines win, offering insights into her plans to clinch the coveted crown in the upcoming competition.
RELATED: Michelle Dee Breathes Life to the Pearl of the Orient For Miss Universe
Beyond beautiful
With her striking Asian features and commanding stature, Michelle clearly has an innate ability to dominate any stage she graces. She also recently surprised everyone with a bold move—choosing to sport a shorter hairstyle. When asked about her preparations for the upcoming competition, she shared that they have dedicated a significant amount of time to perfecting her looks. “One thing I am very excited about is that the shorter the hair, the easier it is to prepare,” she exclaimed with a confident smile.
Reflecting on her past international pageant experience, she confessed that longer hair had once limited her style options and made her hesitant to experiment. However, she wants to challenge the common belief that shorter hair restricts styling choices. Michelle assures us that she’ll showcase a variety of exciting looks, all reflecting her brand and personality, because she believes that an empowered woman is one who confidently and unapologetically expresses her authentic self.
Crown-worthy catwalk
Who can forget this queen’s snake walk? Well, get ready, because she’s about to elevate it to a whole new level. “Pasarela is one of the things I have trained for the most,” she confessed. As she gears up to represent our nation once again, she’s determined to bring her absolute best to her runway walk. With the guidance of Ian Mendajar and Jonas Gaffud, she feels like she’s been honed to shine like a gem, and she’s inviting her fans to eagerly anticipate its grand unveiling, even offering them a chance to rename her next signature walk.
Championing causes worldwide
“It is an advocacy I did not choose; it chose me.”
Michelle Dee on speaking up about autism awareness
In the current era of Miss Universe, beauty runs deeper than the surface. It’s about having a purpose and using your platform for the greater good—a principle the Philippine representative wholeheartedly embraces. She’s not only a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, but also an ardent supporter of Autism awareness. These causes are not mere pageant accessories for Michelle; they’re deeply ingrained in her life. Her drive, as she openly revealed, springs from her personal connection to her siblings who have Autism. Michelle even admitted that if not for her dedication to these causes, she might never have ventured into the world of beauty pageants.
Heritage and fashion unite
Just a few days back, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach couldn’t hide her enthusiasm as she spoke to the press about Michelle Dee’s gown for the competition. When asked about her styling direction, although she didn’t reveal all the details, MMD showed gratitude to her team for the incredible looks they’ve got in store. She also made sure to acknowledge MEGA’s Fashion Director, Ryuji Shiomitsu, for translating her vision into reality. Michelle promised that she’d be keeping things chic and forward-looking, all while infusing a bit more of that Filipino flair and creativity into her style.
Proudly Filipino
“I would not be where I am if not for the support that Filipinos have given me, and I can only try to return that favor by representing them to the best of my ability.”
Michelle’s connection to her roots shines through in every aspect of her journey towards Miss Universe. Her genuine love for the Philippines, evident in her “Ang minamahal kong Pilipinas” closing statement last year and her headshot paying homage to the Philippines being the Pearl of the Orient, reveals a deep-seated passion for her heritage. Even though her childhood was spent away from our shores, her family’s constant reminders of Filipino culture have kept the flame alive within her. The beauty queen’s commitment to staying true to her core is undeniable, and it’s clear that she’ll carry her sash with pride and a burning desire to bring home the much-awaited crown back to where it belongs.
Photos and Video: MICHELLE DEE (via Instagram)
