LOOK: Chelsea Manalo channels Princess Tiana in Disney-inspired photoshoot
Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo, with her striking resemblance to Princess Tiana from Disney's The Princess and the Frog, brought the iconic character to life.
In her latest photo shoot, the Bulacan-based beauty stunned social media in a series of snaps taken by Seven Barretto.
"Channeling my inner Princess Tiana," she wrote in the caption.
Manalo added, "The journey has been magical, and with your support, we can make dreams come true."
In case you didn't know, Tiana is a fictional character in Walt Disney Pictures' 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog, created by Ron Clements and John Musker.
In the tale, Tiana is a dedicated waitress with ambitious dreams of becoming a restaurant owner. Unfortunately, her journey comes to a halt when she transforms into a frog after a desperate kiss with a prince who a wicked witch doctor has cursed.
The photos showcased Manalo donning a gorgeous chartreuse gown by Carl Arcusa, styled by Paris Roxas. Every flower on the gown was handmade from scratch to ensure a "unique and personal touch" while embodying "the journey of a queen ready to take on the world."
Chelsea's dark hair cascades in waves, and her complexion gave her that unmistakable resemblance to Princess Tiana.
The 25-year-old beauty queen then called on her fans and the rest of the Filipinos to vote for the Philippines in the Miss Universe app as well as for the Voice for the Change award.
Nine out of 10 ready
During her send-off event earlier in October, Manalo rated her readiness for the competition a nine out of 10, saying it's the support of her fellow Pinoys that would complete it.
"I am so excited. I know everyone is excited, too. Let's just wait and see what it is I have to show in Miss Universe," she said in an interview with PhilSTAR L!fe.
Manalo was crowned Miss Universe Philippines in May, making history as the first Filipina of African descent to win the crown.
The Miss Universe's coronation night will be held on November 16 in Arena CDMX, Mexico.
Manalo is aiming to take home the fifth crown for the country after Catriona Gray (2018), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margie Moran (1973), and Gloria Diaz (1969).
