Chelsea Manalo impresses in Miss Universe

Filipina beauty queen Chelsea Manalo made a strong impression during both the swimsuit and preliminary competitions of Miss Universe on Friday.

Wearing a bright blue ballgown designed by Filipino designer Manny Halasan, Chelsea showcased her elegance during the evening gown portion, and on Saturday, Halasan unveiled her final evening gown: a white Tiffany gown embellished with silver crystals and covered in Ostrich feathers.

Chelsea's national costume 'Hiraya,' featuring a gold dress with white sleeves and a silver and gold headpiece, was well-received by fellow queens Catriona Gray, Pia Wurtzbach, and Michelle Dee, who praised its beauty and craftsmanship.

In an Instagram post, Chelsea explained that 'Hiraya' symbolizes faith and aspiration until they become reality, emphasizing religious diversity in the Philippines.

Miss Universe's preliminary competition was hosted by previous winners R'Bonney Gabriel from the USA and Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua, with Chelsea finishing her Miss Universe journey in the Top 30 on coronation night on November 17 (Philippine time).

At 25, Chelsea is the first Filipino-Black American to win the Miss Universe Philippines crown in May.