In a groundbreaking moment, Chelsea Manalo made history by becoming the first Black Filipino woman to be crowned Miss Universe Philippines on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.
The 24-year-old’s triumph has ignited a conversation about diversifying beauty standards in the country.
Defying Traditional Notions of Beauty
Born to a Filipino mother and African American father, Manalo’s win has shattered ingrained preferences for Eurocentric features and lighter complexions. Social media erupted with praises, hailing her victory as a challenge to deep-rooted beauty ideals. “Filipino beauty standard shattered into pieces,” exclaimed one user.
Representing Bulacan province, Manalo outshone 52 other contestants from across the archipelago and overseas. During the final round, she eloquently addressed how she would use her beauty and confidence to empower others. “As a woman of color, I have always faced challenges in my life,” she said, adding that she was taught to “believe in myself.”
Paving the Way for Diversity and Inclusion
Manalo’s triumph is part of a broader conversation about diversifying notions of beauty in the Philippines. Lighter-skinned actors and models have typically dominated mainstream media, reflecting Western ideals rooted in the country’s colonial past. Skin-lightening treatments and products remain pervasive.
“I grew up having insecurities as I was always bullied because of my skin and my hair type,” Manalo revealed in a YouTube video. However, her loved ones helped her “realize that I am beautiful in my own extraordinary way.”
Representing the Philippines on the Global Stage
Chelsea Manalo will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico in September. If successful, she would be the fifth Filipina to claim the coveted crown, following Gloria Diaz (1969), Margie Moran (1973), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), and Catriona Gray (2018).
Over 100 countries will be represented, with the Miss Universe organization removing the previous upper age limit for contestants. While Manalo’s victory has been celebrated, the organization has faced scrutiny over allegations of mismanagement and a toxic work environment.
