Ahtisa Manalo dismisses Miss Universe rigging claims without proof

Ahtisa Manalo has decided to disregard allegations of rigging surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 competition, stating that without concrete facts, such claims remain unsubstantiated.

Manalo, who has been involved in pageantry for 18 years, emphasized the importance of not judging based on hearsay, especially in the context of beauty contests where rumors can easily spread.

She focused on her performance during the pageant held in Bangkok, Thailand, and was largely unaware of the controversies until after the event.

During the sashing ceremony held a couple of weeks before the coronation last November 21, Miss Universe Thailand national director Nawat Itsaragrisil claimed Fatima Bosch from Mexico was one of the queens allegedly not complying with the host country's promotional efforts and even called security on her.

Ahtisa believes that not all news pertaining to pageants is factual and that it is difficult to discern gossip from truth.

She asserted that if presented with evidence, her opinion might change, but in the absence of facts, the situation is as it is.

Manalo also acknowledged that disagreements with outcomes are inevitable in life and pageants, and advised focusing on moving forward.