The First Black Filipino Woman Conquers the Title of Miss Universe Philippines
With a Filipino mother and an African American father, the 24-year-old's triumph on social media was heralded as helping to upend traditional beauty standards in her native land.
One user responded to an Instagram post of the win on the Miss Universe Philippines' official account, saying "Chelsea's victory challenges our deeply embedded preference for Eurocentric features and lighter complexions in our country." Another comment read, "Filipino beauty standard shattered."
Representing Bulacan, a province located north of Manila, Manalo triumphed over 52 other competitors from throughout the archipelago and abroad. The competition took place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
As the contest reached the top five finalists, Manalo was asked on stage how she would utilize her beauty and confidence to empower others.
"Growing up, as a woman of color, I faced obstacles," she said. "I was told that there were beauty standards. You know, I was taught to 'believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have.'"
"Because of these," she continued, addressing the packed arena, "I'm already influencing many women who face me right now."
Manalo's victory is part of a broader discourse concerning diversifying conceptions of beauty in the Philippines, a nation where predominant Western ideals have long prevailed, influenced in part by the country's colonial history.
In the Philippines, lighter-skinned actors and models often appear in key TV shows, films, and fashion campaigns. Additionally, skin lightening treatments and products are ubiquitous, as is common in other Asian nations.
Manalo began modeling at 14 and, during an interview on Empire Philippines' YouTube channel, shared her own struggles with self-perception.
"Growing up, I had insecurities. I was bullied because of my skin and my hair type," she revealed. "My friends and family helped me realize that I am beautiful in my own unique way."
Manalo will now represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this September. She aims to secure the fifth title for her nation, following previous winners Gloria Diaz (1969), Margie Moran (1973), and Pia Wurtzbach (2015 - after an initial error naming the winner). Catriona Gray earned the country's last Miss Universe crown in 2018.
Over one hundred nations will participate in Miss Universe 2024. While earlier, contestants were required to be between 18 and 28, this year will see the removal of an upper age limit.
The Miss Universe organization has faced criticism in recent weeks due to questionable management practices, a toxic work environment, and circumstances impacting the mental well-being of competitors in the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA organizations. Both parties vacated their roles earlier this May.
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In light of her triumph, some social media users praised Chelsea Manalo for breaking the mold of traditional beauty standards, championing a more diverse and inclusive notion of Filipino beauty. Her victory on the Miss Universe Philippines stage also signified a shift in style, showcasing the elegance and authenticity inherent in her unique appearance.
Source: edition.cnn.com
