Michelle Dee rallies behind Ahtisa Manalo for Miss Universe

With confidence and pride, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee is rallying behind Ahtisa Manalo as she prepares to carry the country’s colors at the 74th Miss Universe pageant this November in Thailand.

Speaking during her OKgames event in Parañaque City over the weekend, Dee shared her full support for the Quezon-born beauty queen, whom she described as a “formidable contender” ready to make waves on the international stage.

“I love Ahtisa. I feel like she has an amazing chance,” Dee said. “She has some of the best trainers in the country. She will fly to Thailand with her pockets full of surprises we should look forward to.”

Dee, who placed in the Top 10 during last year’s competition, highlighted Manalo’s drive and dedication, noting that she’s been “putting her heart and soul into her journey like every single candidate we send abroad.”

Manalo will aim to secure the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown when the global competition unfolds on 21 November 2025 at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand.

Dee also hinted at her desire to personally support Manalo in Bangkok if her schedule allows.

“We are still trying to make it work so I could go,” she said. “If there’s a chance to support our candidate, I want to. And ang lapit lang ng Thailand kaya sa lahat ng Pinoy na pwede, manuod na kayo!” ("And Thailand is so close, so to all Filipinos who can [go], go and watch!")

Pageant to push through amid national mourning

Despite the nation’s period of mourning following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, organizers have confirmed that the Miss Universe 2025 pageant will proceed as planned in Thailand.

Miss Universe Organization Executive Director Nawat Itsaragrisil issued a statement on 25 October 2025 clarifying that while the competition will continue, program adjustments will be made out of respect for the royal family.

“The organizing committee will adjust the format and related activities as appropriate to the circumstances and will strictly adhere to the guidelines and recommendations from the government,” the statement read.

According to a report from the Bangkok Post, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that the Cabinet has approved a 30-day national mourning period starting 25 October 2025. Entertainment establishments have been requested to either suspend operations or tone down festivities during this time.

The coronation night on 21 November 2025 will see Denmark’s Victoria Theilvig crown her successor. With the spotlight once again on the Philippines, Ahtisa Manalo’s name is among the most anticipated on stage.