Philippines’ Chelsea Manalo named winner of Best National Costume award at Miss Universe 2024
Philippine bet Chelsea Manalo was declared the winner of the Best National Costume award weeks after the coronation night of this year’s Miss Universe.
The Miss Universe Philippines organization announced the country’s NATCOS segment win on Saturday, Nov. 30.
“The Philippines IS the winner in the National Costume Competition of the 73rd Miss Universe competition,” it wrote in the caption. “Congratulations also to all the talented artists and artisans behind the jaw-dropping masterpiece, Hiraya.”
The local pageant organization also thanked everyone who voted in the online polls to help the Philippines win 1st place.
“Stand proud, Philippines!” it added.
At the national costume segment of the 2024 Miss Universe tilt, Manalo walked the runway in a detailed gold and blue gown dubbed Hiraya by Manny Halasan.
"This national costume is a symbolism of the far and profound history and relationship between the Philippines and Mexico," she shared on Instagram. "It reflects the shared deep devotion of both countries to religion. It depicts the colorful introduction of Christianization and Islam in the Philippines."
Taking inspiration from Muslim Filipinos, the gown used traditional fabric of the Inaul from the Province of Sultan Kudarat and was adorned with Tongkaling bells from Mindanao, which were believed to bring protection and blessings to the wearer. The Pinay beauty's gown also included elements from her hometown of Bulacan as it showcased Puni, or art decorations made from coconut fronds. Meanwhile, her headpiece featured the Galleon trade, which brought trade and religion to the Philippines. On her blue train is the image of Our Lady of Antipolo or Our Lady of Good Voyage, which was brought to the country from Mexico during the 16th century.
Manalo ended her Miss Universe 2024 journey in the Top 30 during the finals night in Mexico on Sunday, Nov. 17 (PH time), where she also won Miss Universe Asia. Denmark's Victoria Theilvig was crowned the 73rd Miss Universe, making her the first Danish woman to win the prestigious title.
