The Miss Universe 2024 Preliminary Competition was recently held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Friday morning, November 15, Philippine time.

Miss Philippines Chelsea Manalo wowed the crowd (and presumably, the judges) with her graceful pasarela during the evening gown, swimwear, and national costume segments.

National Costume

During the national costume segment, Chelsea wore a breathtaking Hiraya costume designed by Manny Halasan.

via YouTube/Philstar News

Based on the voice over, the “costume depicts the history of Christianization and Islam in the Philippines. The exploration from Spain and Mexico led to the Christianization of much of the country.”

Meanwhile, Hiraya is an ancient Filipino word that is a deeper form of hope. It is usually used with the word Manawari. The two words together mean “hope it happens.”

Swimsuit

Chelsea was stunning during the swimwear round. She was very graceful as she executed her now signature turns. It was also good that she wore her hair curly.

via YouTube/Philstar News

Evening Gown

The evening gown, however, wasn’t a highlight of the preliminary competition. The girls didn’t get to walk the stage alone. They went to the stage in groups, and the hosts announced their respective countries as the cameras focused on each of them.

via YouTube/Philstar News

Chelsea, however, got everyone’s attention as she did her double turns while wearing her princess-y blue gown.

Miss Philippines really stole some important spotlights during the prelims. Can’t wait for her pasabog come finals.

Did you like Chelsea Manalo’s performance in the Miss Universe 2024 Preliminary Competition?