Stacey Gabriel nearly won the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown, finishing first runner-up in the recently held national pageant.

And while her fellow finalists were given opportunities to represent the Philippines in other international competitions, the beauty queen from Cainta, Rizal did not end up with any crown, leaving many of her fans puzzled. 

Finally breaking her silence on Monday, Gabriel spoke of "declining another crown" to remain a runner-up.

"I know that my decision to respectfully decline another crown and to remain your Miss Universe Philippines first runner-up is aligned with His divine purpose," she said in an Instagram post. "It's incredibly rare to have an opportunity like the one I find myself in now -- to not look ahead to my next crown, but rather to focus on using this prestigious platform to further the work I have dedicated my life to."

"I realize some might not understand my reasons, but my heart wants what it wants," she added. "What many don't realize is that joining a pageant tests and stretches you in ways you never imagined, and I knew I would only do it all over again for my lifelong dream -- Miss Universe." 

Gabriel went on to express her gratitude to the Miss Universe Philippines organization for "believing in my heart and for respecting its desires."

She also showed her support to the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines, Chelsea Manalo of Bulacan, and the rest of this year's titleholders. 

"Though I have yet to wear the Philippines sash, I hope to use this reign to represent my country through the strength of my will and the abundance of my love," she ended. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Stacey Gabriel (@staceygabriel)

Aside from the Miss Universe Philippines title, four other crowns were given to this year's candidates.

Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province was named Miss Cosmo International Philippines 2024, while Alexie Brooks of Iloilo was given the Miss Eco International Philippines 2025 title.

The Miss Charm Philippines 2025 crown was given to Cyrille Payumo of Pampanga, while Tarah Valencia of Baguio was proclaimed Miss Supranational Philippines 2025. 

Bulacan's Chelsea Manalo to represent PH at Miss Universe 2024

Ahtisa Manalo is Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024; Iloilo's Alexie Brooks is Miss Eco International PH 2025