Ahtisa Manalo crowned Miss Universe Philippines

Ahtisa Manalo has been crowned Miss Universe Philippines and will represent the country at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand later this year.

During her coronation at the Mall of Asia Arena on May 2, Ahtisa secured a spot among the Top 6 finalists despite stumbling during her evening gown walk, an incident reminiscent of a similar fall by Miriam Quiambao.

Ahtisa's vibrant opening look and confident performance in the swimsuit round set the stage for her victory, while her graceful recovery from the fall highlighted her resilience.

In the Question and Answer segment, Ahtisa referenced her fall as an example of coming back stronger after personal challenges, dedicating her win to her late grandmother who shared her dream.

Joining Ahtisa in the final lineup were 1st runner-up Winwyn Marquez and 2nd runner-up Yllana Marie Aduana, along with finalists Gabrielle Carballo, Chelsea Fernandez, and Katrina Llegado.