Philippine pride is once again soaring high as Ahtisa Manalo, the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025, prepares to represent the country in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant to be held in Bangkok, Thailand. Following an emotional send-off event last week, the 26-year-old beauty queen expressed her readiness and determination to bring home the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown.
Held at Citadines Millennium Ortigas, Manalo’s official send-off gathered members of the Miss Universe Philippines Organization, sponsors, and fans who have supported her journey since she first won the national title. With visible emotion and gratitude, she thanked everyone who stood by her and promised to give her all on the international stage.
“I’m 10 out of 10 ready,” Manalo said with confidence during her speech. “Ilalaban ko kayo lahat.” She also shared that her goal goes beyond personal achievement — it’s about representing the strength and beauty of every Filipino. “Mayroon pa tayong ipaglalaban na fifth crown,” she added, referring to the Philippines’ long-standing passion for the Miss Universe competition.
This year’s Miss Universe pageant will take place in Thailand, a country that has become a “lucky charm” for many Filipina beauty queens. According to Inquirer Entertainment, Thailand has historically been a favorable setting for the Philippines, with several pageant milestones linked to the country. For Ahtisa, the venue holds special meaning — she previously competed and won first runner-up at Miss International 2018 in Tokyo, but Thailand has always been a place where she felt a strong sense of connection and good energy.
Manalo’s upcoming competition in Bangkok adds to that hopeful narrative. With over 125 delegates expected to join, the 74th Miss Universe pageant promises to be a dazzling display of culture, confidence, and advocacy. Still, for Ahtisa, it’s not just about beauty or elegance. Her preparation reflects her deep sense of purpose — to showcase the Filipina spirit, intelligence, and heart on a global stage.
As she embarks on this new chapter, supporters across the country have been flooding social media with well wishes, calling her “the embodiment of grace and determination.” Her polished official portraits and training updates continue to generate excitement online, signaling a strong campaign heading into the competition.
With her emotional send-off, unwavering confidence, and the symbolic “luck” of Thailand on her side, Ahtisa Manalo stands as a beacon of hope for the Philippines. All eyes are now on Bangkok, where the nation awaits — ready to cheer for the woman who aims to bring home the Miss Universe crown once more.
