Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo. Manalo/Instagram

Chelsea Manalo may have ended her reign as Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH), but she believes that her journey is far from over.

The beauty queen from Bulacan passed her crown to another Manalo during the MUPH coronation night last May 2. Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province, also her batchmate last year, will represent the country in the 74th Miss Universe in Thailand this November. 

"From the moment I was crowned, I knew this was more than just a title," Manalo said as she looked back on the year that has passed in an Instagram post. "It was a responsibility, an opportunity to inspire, and a chance to grow."

"Throughout, I have had the privilege of meeting incredible people, of being given a platform to support meaningful causes, and to represent not just myself but a community that I cherish deeply," she added. 

Manalo made history as the first-ever Miss Universe Asia, joining three other continental queens: Tati Calmell of Peru (Miss Universe Americas), Matilda Wirtavuori of Finland (Miss Universe Europe and Middle East), and Nigeria's Chidimma Adetshina (Miss Universe Africa and Oceania).

The four of them, as well as reigning Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig of Denmark, graced the MUPH 2025 coronation night as special guests.

"Every experience from the glamorous moments on stage, to the heartfelt connections developed behind the scenes, have been stepping stones in my growth as a woman and as a leader," she said.

"Though my reign is ending, my journey does not stop here," the Filipina declared. "I will carry the lessons, memories, and friendships with me forever." 

The MUPH 2025 finals concluded the "Royal Tour of Asia" of Manalo and the other continental queens, which kicked off in Thailand in late March.

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Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province wins Miss Universe PH 2025 crown