AHTISA Manalo had the regal stature of a queen as she departed for Thailand to compete at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant.
Manalo, who looked elegant in a white Filipiniana-inspired top with a black ribbon and matching pants, was all smiles as she met her supporters at the airport before leaving for Thailand on Sunday, Nov. 2, as seen in snippets on Miss Universe Philippines’ Instagram page.
“The cheers were wild and full of love. Fans filled the airport to send off our Miss Universe 2025 Ahtisa Manalo as she flies to Bangkok for Miss Universe 2025. The whole nation is with you, queen,” one of its posts read.
“Ahtisa Manalo, Philippines! Love, pride, and cheers filled the air. Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Ahtisa Manalo takes flight for Miss Universe, carrying the heart of every Filipino,” another post read.
Since Thailand is in mourning the death of Queen Mother Sirikit, the public is encouraged to wear black, white, and subdued colors. It is not an official requirement for this year’s candidates, but this explains why Manalo and her fellow delegates wore black, white, and other neutral shades at the airport.
At the same time, the format of the pageant’s activities will be “adjusted” in accordance with government regulations. The coronation will nonetheless take place at the Impact Challenger Hall in Nonthaburi, Thailand, on Nov. 21.
Manalo is on a quest to bring home the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown after Gloria Diaz, Margarita Moran, Pia Wurtzbach, and Catriona Gray.
A pageant veteran in her own right, the Quezon Province stunner competed at the Miss International and Miss Cosmo tilts, as well as Binibining Pilipinas 2018 and Miss Universe Philippines twice before earning the right to represent the country. (Hannah Mallorca © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
