Chelsea Manalo is back in PH, shares secret to bagging the Miss Universe Asia title

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Dec 10, 2024 09:23 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The "Bulacan Barbie" said she is looking forward to eating adobo and spending Christmas with her family after being away for almost two months. 

The first Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo being interviewed about her duties

Newly proclaimed Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Anne Manalo flew back to Manila last night after successfully representing the country in Mexico City. The "Bulacan Barbie" said she is looking forward to eating adobo and spending Christmas with her family after being away for almost two months.

Chelsea arrived via PR flight 113 from Los Angeles wearing a black leather jacket. "Ang init ha. Ang init bigla! From LA, now I'm here in the Philippines. Grabe yung weather. I can feel the support. Maraming salamat po for coming here," she told the media and some fans who gathered to greet her at the arrival area of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. 

(It's hot. From LA, now I'm here in the Philippines. The weather's suddenly hot. Thank you very much for coming here.) 

In a press release, Miss Universe Philippines announced that Chelsea will go to Thailand and Europe "around May or June"  next year. As the first Miss Universe Continental Queen for Asia, part of her duty will be to "oversee projects and charity programs" of the Miss Universe Organization in different parts of the world. She will be traveling with the other winners, notably Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark who is also scheduled to visit the Philippines. 

Chelsea believes her win has opened "more doors to women who want to pursue pageantry differently, that it's not all about how we look, but rather our personality, intentions, our advocacy."

She noted that showing the judges her "best personality" became the main goal during the Miss Universe competition. One of the judges asked her to sing during the closed-door interview since it's widely known that Filipinos love karaoke. Chelsea gamely sang "A Whole New World," which is the theme song of the Disney movie "Aladdin."

Newly proclaimed Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo is flanked by her supporters and the media after arriving at NAIA Monday night.

"I sang my heart out for 'A Whole New World', they saw the personality there and they really liked it so I guess that's why we have Miss Universe Asia now," she revealed.

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Chelsea said she's also "very happy" to win the Best in National Costume award for the "Hiraya" creation by Bulacan-based designer Manny Halasan, reflecting the Philippines' different religious influences.

"Sobrang happy ako kasi nakita ng organization yung story that I have to put in my costume," she pointed out. 

Competing in the Miss Universe made Chelsea realize how the Philippines and Mexico have many things in common regarding culture. The 25-year-old beauty said she really liked Mexican food, especially tacos and guacamole, although now that she's back home, she can't wait to taste "adobo and puto bumbong."

As the first Filipina of African-American descent to represent the Philippines in Miss Universe, Chelsea thanked everyone who supported and prayed for her. "I didn't make it by myself. Hindi lang to dahil sa organization and sa judges, but it's because of all of you, yung support na binigay nyo sa akin. I won because of the votes of every Filipino and those people who supported me, kaya maraming maraming salamat."

The Miss Universe Philippines organization has lined up a homecoming parade, a victory press conference, and a slew of TV guestings for Chelsea in the next few days.

Bianca Umali on how she takes care of her beauty and body

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY 

Nov 2, 2024 02:53 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The appeal of being "simple" enticed Bianca to accept her latest endorsement for Pina Beauty. 

Bianca Umali

Even though she's only 24, Sparkle artist Bianca Umali has figured it all out. This is evident when you hear her speak about dealing with criticism and dispelling other people's preconceived notions about her.

Having grown up in show business early on, Bianca revealed that she has learned to take negative comments in stride. 

"Naging malinaw sa akin ever since na you can never please everyone. At kahit na anong perfect mo, kahit pa anong polido mo o galing mo sa lahat ng ginagawa mo, meron at meron silang masasabi tungkol sa iyo," she pondered. 

(You can never please everyone - no matter how perfect you are at what you do, people will always have something to say about you.)

The Genz Z actress noted that getting older has given her a different perspective, especially when dealing with negative things.

"Regardless if maganda o hindi maganda ang sabihin tungkol sa akin ng mga tao, I respect that because opinion nila yun, just as much as they should respect my opinion as a person as well," she reasoned out.

(Whether people have good or bad things to say about me, I respect that because it's their opinion.) 

Bianca observed that she's often misunderstood because she's an introvert and her strong mestiza features make her look like a snob. But being self-aware, she has learned to turn these negatives into her own superpower.

Sparkle artist Bianca Umali (second from right) with officers of Fcoy 15 Trading Corp., the makers of Pina Glow soap and lotion

"A lot of people tell me that I have a strong presence but I actually see that now as a superpower. I tell myself: okay, when you walk into a room, people may feel you're too strong but  let them know you're not. Ikaw yung mag-approach, bumati ka, make the most out of it and make them know you all the more. Kasi yun yung masarap. Pag narinig nila na hindi ka pala masungit, masarap ka pala kausap, ganyan ka pala bilang tao. It feels more fulfilling."

If Bianca acts and thinks more mature than her years, blame it on the fact that she was orphaned early. Being raised as a young girl by her grandmother, Vicky taught Bianca the value of simplicity.

The appeal of being "simple" enticed Bianca to accept her latest endorsement for Pina Beauty. This all-Filipino skincare brand makes its unique soap and lotion infused with watermelon.

"I was never a fan of many steps (in skincare)  and always go for what is expensive because we trust that the name is what we pay for. Because of how my lola raised me, I'm very mindful, especially regarding budgeting. But at the same time, we want to take care of ourselves.  Brands like Pina stand for what a Filipina truly is.  Being a beautiful Filipina doesn't have to take so much hard work. It's not just a dream, we can achieve it," Bianca stressed.

It also helped that Bianca aligned herself with Pina's advocacy to espouse the welfare of Filipino soldiers. "I know who I am; I know what I stand for and believe in. I will endorse brands that I am confident align with things and my values," she stated.

Aside from her beautiful face, people can't help but admire Bianca's toned body now. She's doing this as part of the bigger picture because her mother died when she was only 5, followed by her father when she turned 10.

"I want to take extra care of my body so that when I have kids, I will be able to live longer and make more memories with them," she intoned.

Bianca credits her boyfriend of seven years, fellow actor Ruru Madrid, as a "big factor" in her "motivation" to be fit.

"We work out together, and it means so much that we live a healthy lifestyle together," she pointed out.

She added that she wants to be an excellent example to her followers and fans.  

"I want to share with the new generation that taking care of ourselves is important. It may be hard at first, but when you feel the change and understand what benefits you get from working out, from knowing which products are for you and prioritizing self-care, you will be happier. You will live your best life," Bianca stated.

Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo to bring rosary and lucky shoes to Mexico

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Chelsea recalled that the shoes were the first high-heeled pair she wore, which she used during her college graduation.

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Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Anne Manalo

When she leaves the Philippines to begin her journey for Miss Universe 2024, which will be held in Mexico City, Chelsea Anne Manalo will be bringing with her two things that she considers her lucky charms: a rosary and her first high-heeled shoes, which were given to her by her mom.

Chelsea recalled that the shoes were the first high-heeled pair she wore, which she used during her college graduation. "I took good care of it —minahal ko siya. Sabi ko, I know that it will take me along the way because ito na yung umpisa ng buhay ko. So, entering Miss Universe Philippines, those were my first ever heels. I would say that the shoes were a lucky charm for me." 

On the other hand, the rosary was given to her by MUPH executive vice-president Voltaire Tayag after he finished a pilgrimage. 

"I have a rosary from Sir V (Voltaire)  because he just had his mission to walk, and he gave me that rosary. It's very important to me to take that with me to Mexico because I know he didn't just walk there for himself, but he indulged or took me to his prayers simultaneously," the beauty queen from Bulacan commented.

Chelsea was honored by friends, family, fellow queens, her creative team and MUPH officials led by Jonas Gaffud during her official send-off ceremony held at Hilton Hotel Manila on Oct. 9.

"I love you so much. I know you will win in Mexico!," Chelsea's tearful mom, Contessa, declared.

Chelsea Manalo with Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner-up Ariella Arida

Shamcey Supsup-Lee and Ariella Arida, who placed 3rd runner-up in Miss Universe 2011 and 2013, respectively,  praised Chelsea's professionalism and "authentic" charm.  

Shamcey intoned that Chelsea's positive attitude is an asset for the crown, which has to deal with brands a lot. She recalled when they had a shoot for a sponsor. "She (Chelsea) was sick and had a fever, but not one complaint from her for the whole day of shooting."

Miss Bingo Plus Universe of MUPH 2024,  Maica Martinez of Nueva Ecija, declared herself proud of her batchmate. "Of course, we're manifesting and claiming Manalo to Mexico! I'm just so proud of you, Chelsea. We've spent so much time together, many months, as queen sisters."

On a scale of 1 to 10, Chelsea indicated and rated how prepared she was to compete in Mexico for Miss Universe.

"Can I just say nine? Meron pang isang naiwan kasi I don't want to always put myself naman na I'm 100 percent ready. I think yung 1 percent na naiwan is the whole Filipinos. Konting push pa for the support of all the Filipinos and I know I get na magiging 100 or more than 10 pa na ready ako. If I can get that support from all the other Filipinos who are here right now, beyond your lenses, beyond the media, then we're ready to get that crown," Chelsea stressed.

BingoPlus, your comprehensive entertainment platform in the country and provider of your favorite online tongits, bingo, and perya games, delivered a fun-filled and truly entertaining year for the pageant scene in the country as the brand successfully presented Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2024.

MUPH 2024 Chelsea Manalo with her mom Contessa and stepfather Randy

This year, BingoPlus stands as the MUPH lead presenter, allowing the brand to bring in significant events for the pageant throughout the competition, making it enjoyable for the queens and the organizations and for all supporters across Filipino communities.

Among these activities were the press conference held at LimaPark Hotel Batangas City, the MUPH house visit to BingoPlus at Bonifacio Global City and BingoPlus Studio in Quezon City, Sponsors Night and the Preliminary Night at the Manila Hotel, and the Grand Coronation Night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

For BingoPlus, the partnership with Empireph Holdings Inc. has been monumental in promoting its advocacies in nurturing culture and communities, expanding efforts to protect rich biodiversity, and creating safe spaces and opportunities for wellness. 

The brand also ensured that its programs empowered women by launching its #GandaPlus campaign, which aimed to provide a platform for queens and fans to express their definition of beauty and purpose, ensuring a diverse and limitless meaning of beauty.

33 candidates vie for Miss Asia Pacific International 2024 in Manila

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Oct 2, 2024 07:52 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• During the presentation, the media present unanimously voted to give the "Darling of the Press" award to New Zealand's Katharina Weischede.

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Darling of the Press Miss New Zealand (center) is flanked by runners-up Miss Philippines and Miss Sweden (Images by Annalyn Jusay)

After a long, five-year hiatus, Miss Asia Pacific International returns to the world stage with no less than Manila, Philippines, as the venue for all its activities, including the Grand Coronation Night, which will be held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on Sunday, Oct. 7.

On Oct. 1, 33 lovely candidates representing their respective countries were presented to the media at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, where they sashayed in eye-catching swimsuits designed by Sony Boy Mindo and stylish shoes from MariQueen PH.

The Press Presentation marked the first official public appearance of the international beauties who embody the prestigious pageant's advocacy of "Beauty In Diversity" and this year's theme of #CelebrateEveryHue.

"This year, we are honored to showcase an extraordinary group of young women who represent the vibrant diversity of their respective countries. Each contestant comes not only with grace and talent but also with profound commitment to serve their country and to represent their respective cultures. They are here to share their dreams, aspirations, and causes they passionately advocate for," stressed MAPI president and beauty queen Eva Patalinjug-Lim.

"As we embark on this exciting journey, let us remember that Miss Asia Pacific International is more than just a pageant. It is a platform for inspiring positive transformation and fostering understanding among cultures," she added.

During the presentation, the media present unanimously voted to give the "Darling of the Press" award to New Zealand's Katharina Weischede. The Philippines' Blessa Ericha Figueroa was chosen as the first runner-up, while Sweden's Wanja Olsson, another half-Filipina, was chosen as the second runner-up.

The "Darling of the Press," who is half-Filipina, said after her awarding: " I'm not just representing me or my country. I'm representing a dream. And the mission of Miss Asia Pacific International which is one that celebrates beauty and diversity. Because each of us, no matter what we look like, whether we have different views or interests, are all beautiful and that's something that we bring to the table."

MAPI President Atty. Eva Patalinjug-Lim

Official media partners also chose their favorite candidates:

Miss OPMB Worldwide - Miss New Zealand, Katharina Weischede

Miss Missosology - Miss USA, Janelis Leyba

Miss Pageanthology 101 - Miss Peru, Maria Fernanda Colchada Medina

Miss Eventologie - Miss Thailand, Kanyaphatsaphon Rungrueang  

The excitement continues on Oct. 3 with the preliminaries featuring the National Costume, Swimsuit, and Evening Gown competitions. The culmination will be the grand finals, where the new Miss Asia Pacific International 2024 will be crowned, along with four runners-up.

Here is the complete list of candidates:

1. Breanna Mitchell (Australia)
2. Tasin Afrin Diana (Bangladesh)
3.Selena Ali (Belgium)
4.Gabriela de Paiva Padilla (Bolivia)
5. Mya Bao (Canada)
6. Valeria Fernanda Gonzales Loyola (Chile)
7.Luisa Valentina Munoz Ruiz (Colombia)
8. Julie Goye Dogan (France)
9. Jennifer Prokop (Germany)
10. Rosie Minako (Great Britain)
11. Keshia Lee Llarenas (Guam)
12. Mercedes Pair (Hong Kong)
13. Sophiya Singh (India)
14.Dessy Rahelia Siagan (Indonesia)
15. Mohana Tsuda (Japan)
16. Hayoung Cho (Korea)
17. Carol Hor Eau Lye (Malaysia)
18. Karen Sofia Nunez (Mexico)
19. Merel Van Roon (Netherlands)
20. Katharina Weischede (New Zealand)
21. Chizuruoke Sufficient Arua (Nigeria)
22. Maria Fernanda Colchada Medina (Peru
23. Blessa Ericha Figueroa (Philippines)
24. Valeriia Volkova (Russia)
25. Alethea Hui Xuan Yee (Singapore)
26. Wanja Jennifer Grace Olsson (Sweden)
27. Mei-Jou Chen (Taiwan)
28. Kanyaphatsaphon Rungrueang (Thailand)
29. Kayla Tupou (Tonga)
30. Janelis Leyba (USA)
31. Maria Sanchez Paez (Venezuela)
32. Anh Vuong Pham Thi (Vietnam
33. Precious Soko (Zambia)

CJ Opiaza of Zambales wins Miss Grand Philippines 2024 title

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Sep 30, 2024 07:29 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Aside from CJ, Sophia Bianca Santos of Pampanga was named Universal Woman 2025, while Anna Margaret Mercado of Quirino Province was given the title Miss Teen International Philippines 2025 on the coronation night that was held at Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

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Christine Juliane 'CJ' Opiaza

Pageant veteran Christine Juliane "CJ " Opiaza - a 26-year-old candidate from Castillejos, Zambales, who first joined beauty contests as a teenager to get a college scholarship - was proclaimed  Miss Grand Philippines 2024 Sunday night. She also gets to vie for this year's Miss Grand International finals slated to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Oct. 25.

Aside from CJ, Sophia Bianca Santos of Pampanga was named Universal Woman 2025, while Anna Margaret Mercado of Quirino Province was given the title Miss Teen International Philippines 2025 on the coronation night that was held at Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

CJ and Sophia were crowned by their predecessors, namely Miss Grand Philippines 2023 Nikki De Moura and reigning Universal Woman Maria Gigante. Meanwhile, Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Jasmine Reyes did the honors for the new Miss Teen International Philippines.

Named first runner-up was Dr. Jubilee Therese Acosta of the City of Manila while second runner-up was Alexandra Mae Rosales of Laguna Province.

A total of 20 contestants from all over the country competed for the title which is organized by ALV Pageant Circle of Arnold Vegafria, also the pageant's national director.

(From left) Miss Grand PH 2024 2nd runner-up Alexandra Mae Rosales, Universal Woman Philippines 2025 Sophia Bianca Santos, Miss Grand Philippines 2024  CJ Opiaza, Miss Teen International Philippines 2025 Anna Margaret Mercado and 1st runner-up Jubilee Therese Acosta

Rounding up the Top 10 in the competition were Julianne Rose Reyes of Cavite, Geralyn De Klerk of Himamaylan, Negros Occidental, Jenesse Viktoria Mejia of Pangasinan, Selena Antonio-Reyes of Pasig and Patricia McGee of Zambales.

Early start in pageantry

CJ was an early contest favorite and ran away with most of the special awards from the sponsors, including Miss Photogenic, Miss Multimedia, Miss Mestiza, Miss Aqua Boracay, and Best in Swimsuit.

She was only 13 when she first attempted a beauty title at the Miss Teen Olongapo contest where she won first runner-up. She first caught the eyes of national pageant fans when she was adjudged Miss Bikini Philippines 2016. She also joined Bb. Pilipinas 2022 but was unplaced. In the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 contest, she ran away with first runner-up honors.

CJ is famous in the community for her pasarela or catwalk which she calls the "Amihan" walk because it blows one away like the wind. Local pageant fans express hopes this will be an asset for her when she competes in Miss Grand, a competition where the Philippines still has to bag the winning crown. 

(From left) Miss Grand PH 2023 Nikki de Moura, Miss Grand PH 2024 CJ Opiaza, chair of the judges Shy Tan, Miss Grand PH national director Arnold Vegafria and model Mark Ian Garcia

In the question-and-answer portion, the newly crowned Miss Grand Philippines 2024 was asked this question by TV executive Jeffrey Remigio: "Do you think winning beauty queens deserve also the rewards and incentives that Olympic athletes get from the government, private sector, and other established brands?"

CJ replied: "Being able to stand here is already a reward for us.I believe we don't actually need an incentive or a monetary award to be able to be seen and to be heard. Just the very platform of this is already championing the lives of the people who believe in us, the people who we inspire. And so, I hope all the beauty queens here will continue their legacy to push for their causes and to present themselves around the world."

The Miss Grand Philippines 2024 program was hosted by KC Montero, broadcaster Dyan Castillejo and Miss World 2024 1st Princess Jasmine Omay.

The board of Judges was headed by entrepreneur-philanthropist Shy Tan. It also included Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi, Miss Face of Beauty International 2024 Jeanne Isabelle Bilasano, noted designer Rian Fernandez, Reina Hispanoamericana 2023 second runner-up Michelle Arceo, actor David Chua, Bench model Mark Ian Garcia and MMA fighter John Adajar.

19 Miss Grand PH candidates to compete for crown on Sept. 29

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Sep 24, 2024 09:19 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Aside from the main title, the country's representative to the Universal Woman 2025 pageant will also be chosen on Sept. 29.

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Miss Grand Philippines 2024 candidates are presented to the media in Makati City a week before the coronation night (Ezel John/Pageantry Fanatics)

Nineteen lovely women from all over the country were presented to the media yesterday as the official candidates for Miss Grand Philippines 2024, which will have its coronation night on Sunday, Sept. 29, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

The winner, who will be proclaimed that night, will then fly to Bangkok, Thailand, on Oct. 3 for the start of the competition for Miss Grand International 2024, with the finals set for Oct. 25. The MGI crown has so far eluded the Philippines since its participation, with Filipina queens Nicole Cordoves (2016) and Samantha Bernardo (2020) getting as far as placing first runner-up.

Aside from the main title, the country's representative to the Universal Woman 2025 pageant will also be chosen on Sept. 29. The reigning queen is the Philippines' Maria Gigante who bested 47 other contestants from all over the world in the Universal Woman 2024 pageant held in Cambodia last March.

Present during the presentation of candidates were (from left): Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Francine Reyes, Miss Grand Philippines National Director Arnold Vegafria, Miss Grand Philippines 2023 Nikki De Moura and Universal Woman 2024 Maria Gigante (Annalyn Jusay)

The complete list of Miss Grand Philippines 2024 contestants are as follows:

1. Zsarlene Mae Anicete (Batangas)

2. Isabel Dawson (Bulacan)

3. Marinel Salvador (Cabanatuan)

4. Chloe Guatno (Camarines Norte)

5. Christine Juliane Opiaza (Castillejos, Zambales)

6. Julianne Rose Reyes (Cavite)

7. Geralyn Basto de Klerke (Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental)

8. Carrhyll Manicad (Malabon)

9. Jubilee Therese Acosta (Manila)

10. Mikaela Jane Fajardo (Marilao, Bulacan)

11. Alyssa Marie Geronimo (Nueva Ecija)

12 . Sophia Bianca Santos (Pampanga)

13. Jenesse Viktoria Mejia (Pangasinan)

14. Selena Antonio-Reyes (Pasig City)

15. Angel Bianca Agustin (Quezon City)

16. Anna Margaret Mercado (Quirino)

17. Samantha Margaret Babila (Rizal)

18. Diana Mariel Valendia (Sta. Mesa, Manila)

19. Patricia Mcgee (Zambales)

Of the 19 in the list, most are joining a national beauty contest for the first time while four have either placed or won in other prominent competitions. These include Candidate No. 5, CJ Opiaza, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 first runner-up; Candidate No. 9, Jubilee Therese Acosta, Miss Manila 2024 first runner-up; Candidate No. 12, Sophia Bianca Santos, Miss World Philippines 2024 2nd Princess; and Candidate No. 14, Selena Antonio-Reyes, Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Top 20.

Opiaza believed that winning the elusive MGI crown was just a matter of timing. "I want to credit all the past queens who tried their best to get the crown. However, it's just like the perfect timing for all of us. It would not hinder us, even if it's just a week of preparation or just a few days before the international (pageant), because Filipinas are always ready. And we are always ready to brave whatever challenge will come our way."