[OPINION] Chelsea Manalo: Black pearl as Philippines’ ace in Miss Universe 2024

In the bloodbath that was Miss Universe Philippines 2024, a dark horse emerged, beating pageant veterans and fan favorites. 

Bulacan’s Chelsea Manalo took home the highly coveted crown during the finals night on May 22. She bested 52 other contestants and earned the right to represent the pageant-crazy Philippines at the 73rd Miss Universe. 

This year’s edition of the Miss Universe Philippines removed restrictions on age and civil status. But the most exciting part for pageant...