Once bullied for being Black, Chelsea Manalo now crowned as First Black Filipina to win Miss Universe Philippines 2024

Photo credits to: Rappler

Meet the beauty queen that didn't just win the crown, but made history in the realm of pageantry as she became the first Filipino woman with African-American descent to be hailed Miss Universe Philippines 2024 last May 22 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Chelsea Anne Manalo, the 24-year-old candidate of Bulacan, a province to the northern area of Manila, triumphed over 52 other contestants from different regions of the Philippines and overseas.

 She was raised by her Mother, Contessa Manalo and his step father after her biological dad passed away. At the young age of 14, Chelsea began modelling to help her family finances. She graduated with a degree in Tourism at the De La Salle Araneta University.

 An advocate for indigenous people, Manalo also campaigns for body positivity, youth education and women empowerment.

                                                  Photo credits: manalochelsea IG post

When the competition boiled down to the top 5 finalists, Manalo was asked in the Q&A portion on how she would use her beauty and confidence to others.

Watch Chelsea Manalo's full performance here:

 "As a woman of color, I have always faced challenges in my life. I was told that beauty has standards, actually. Believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have, Because of these, I am already influencing a lot of women who are facing me right now. I grew up having insecurities as I was always bullied because of my skin and my hair type, and with that, I realize that I am beautiful in my own extraordinary way", Manalo remarked.

Manalo is set to represent the Philippines in the upcoming Miss Universe 2024 pageant to be held in Mexico this September.