Michelle Dee honors beauty queen mom with replica of lost Miss International crown

In a heartwarming tribute fit for a queen, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee gifted her mother — Filipina beauty legend and Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez — a custom-made replica of the crown that once marked a historic moment in Philippine pageant history.

The original Miss International crown awarded to Melanie decades ago had long been lost after it was stolen, making Michelle’s surprise all the more meaningful.

“Every day is Mother’s Day and every day is your birthday! To my REYNA! I love you,” Michelle wrote in her Instagram post, alongside a photo of her beaming mom holding the iconic crown once again.

The gesture was a symbol of legacy, love, and gratitude — from daughter to mother, from queen to queen.