Latest news with #MissUniversePhilippines2024
GMA Network
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Gabbi Garcia says joining Miss Universe PH not the smartest thing to do right now for her
Gabbi Garcia has been open about entering the world of beauty pageants through Miss Universe Philippines, but she thinks that now is not the right time to do so. In Friday's 'Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,' the Sparkle star said that her current career commitments present significant hurdles to going after this goal. 'I'm turning 27 this year so it would have been the perfect time to join, right? Pero nga kasi, I've been saying I've been open about this, there are a lot of factors to consider if I could join or not,' Gabbi said. Foremost among these factors are her existing contracts and brand endorsements. 'You know, relationships with brands na baka hindi ma-i-push kung sumali ako because I would have to drop everything or pause everything. [In] short, I would be jobless for maybe a year or two if I continue to join. So I don't think it's the smartest thing to do right now,' she said. The actress and host is aware that many people are urging her to compete, believing that the time is now. 'Kung ako lang talaga and wala akong iba i-sa-sacrifice, I would have joined. Maybe I could have tried and tried already until I reached the crown, right? But as of now, you know, there are different priorities that I have to weigh as well now that I'm in the industry for 11 years. So until now it's still an unanswered thing in my head,' she said. While her immediate focus is on her current career path and commitments, Gabbi made it clear that she is not entirely closing the door on the possibility of competing in the future. 'May mga bagay na kahit na gustong-gusto natin para sa sarili natin, sinasabi na ni Lord at sinasabi ng destiny na hindi siya muna para sa 'yo. So, I'm not closing my doors, definitely. I'm still open. But as of now, I have different things to prioritize,' she said. In 2020, Gabbi revealed that joining a beauty pageant was her childhood dream. Four years later, there were rumors that she was joining Miss Universe Philippines 2024, but while she was flattered, she said that it was not true. Gabbi renewed her contract with GMA Network on Friday. She currently stars in GMA Network's first Viu Original series 'Slay' and hosts 'Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.' —Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News
Gulf News
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
10 things to know about Ahtisa Manalo, your Miss Universe Philippines 2025 queen
From runner-up to queen: Ahtisa Manalo's pageant journey Last updated: (Entertainment Editor) Ahtisa Manalo has been crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025, emerging as the winner from a competitive field of 65 candidates during the coronation held at the Mall of Asia Arena on May 2. She will represent the Philippines at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November. A veteran in the pageant scene, Manalo was first runner-up at Miss International 2018, second runner-up in Miss Universe Philippines 2024, and a Top 10 finalist at Miss Cosmo. Her impressive track record has firmly established her as a leading figure in both local and international competitions. She succeeds Chelsea Manalo, who made history in 2024 as the first Filipina to win the Miss Universe Asia title. With four Miss Universe crowns already under the Philippines' belt, Ahtisa is set to carry forward the nation's proud tradition on the global stage. 1/9 Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025 during the pageant's coronation night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Friday. Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 2. Pageantry runs in her blood. She's been competing since Grade 4, all to win tuition for school. That grind? Real. 2/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 3. She's already a global girl. She was 1st runner-up at Miss International 2018, and Top 10 at Miss Cosmo 2024. Now, it's Miss Universe or bust. 3/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 4. She's beauty and balance sheets. A certified accountant, Ahtisa earned her degree while juggling work, life, and pageants. 4/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 5. At night, she's a gamer girl. She once powered through Hogwarts Legacy with 99% completion—barely ate, barely slept, and proudly admits it. 5/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 6. She's got baton skills. Former lead majorette in high school. And yes, she can still twirl it like a pro. 6/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 7. Her inspo? Mulan. Favorite quote: 'The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.' Fitting, right? 7/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 8. She's never met her biological dad. It shaped her, challenged her, and she's turned that pain into power. 8/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram 9. She's a lola's girl. Her late grandmother raised her, put her through school, and remains her biggest inspiration. 9/9 Ahtisa Manalo/Instagram
Gulf News
20-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
History made in Egypt: Alexie Mae Brooks from the Philippines crowned Miss Eco International 2025!
The Filipino-American athlete and model takes the crown and best in national costume award Last updated: Dubai: Alexie Mae Caimoso Brooks has just made history! On April 19, 2025, this extraordinary Filipino-American athlete and model from Iloilo City, Philippines, was crowned Miss Eco International 2025 in a spectacular coronation night held in Alexandria, Egypt—a moment that will go down in history! The moment she was crowned was nothing short of magical. The crowd erupted in thunderous applause as they witnessed not only the birth of a queen but the rise of a true powerhouse—someone whose beauty, strength, and passion for the planet captivated the entire world. The final rankings were fierce, with Yulinar Fitrani of Indonesia taking the first runner-up spot, followed by Yelyzaveta Adamska from Ukraine as second runner-up. The Top 5 was completed by Cynthia Murillo of the USA in third runner-up and Victoria Repollo of the United Kingdom as fourth runner-up. But it was Alexie Mae Brooks who stole the spotlight—and took home the crown! A journey of passion and perseverance Born and raised by her grandparents in Leon, Iloilo, Brooks's journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. A track and field athlete, she proudly represented the Philippines at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games before transitioning into the world of pageantry. In 2024, she was crowned Miss Iloilo, and soon after, she became a Top 10 finalist at Miss Universe Philippines 2024. Her destiny as a global ambassador for the environment began when she was named Miss Eco Philippines 2025, and the rest is now part of history! Brooks won the Best in National Costume award for her stunning ensemble designed by Tata Blas-Pinuela, inspired by the Philippine eagle. The costume, with intricate feather details and a regal headdress, symbolized strength and freedom, earning her universal admiration. Before the coronation, Brooks also secured first runner-up in talent competition, and placed 10th in Resort Wear and 6th in Eco Wear. Each segment showcased her dedication to beauty with a cause and her unshakable confidence. The moment of truth: The unforgettable Q&A The stakes were high during the final Q&A, where Brooks's wisdom and passion shone brightly. When asked how she would envision the world in 2050 and what she hoped to change, Brooks delivered a powerful and emotional answer that captured the hearts of the judges, the audience, and the world. Her response? It was a call to action—and a call for unity in the face of climate change: 'If you want me to be realistic, climate change is impacting our world right now. And the only thing we can do is act. Brothers and sisters, ladies and gentlemen, we have the same mother, even if we come from different nations. And we in here are brothers and sisters right now. And our mother is asking for our help. So we must save our planet Earth, and we must take care of our Mother Earth. Thank you so much.' Beauty pageant fans across the UAE are praising Brooks's remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international stardom. The excitement surrounding her victory in Egypt is palpable, with many admiring her strength, grace, and unwavering dedication to her cause. Here's what some of her fans had to say about her inspiring story and standout performance at the pageant: Phearly Delfino Alejandria, Woman of The World 2024 at The Grand Universe Pageant in the Philippines, who is based in the UAE, reflects on the inspiring rise of Brooks. 'What's truly inspiring about Brooks is how she turned the pain of being bullied for her skin color into a drive to represent women with strength and pride. From a small town in Iloilo to the international stage, her story proves that resilience, heart, and staying true to your roots can make you shine.' For Alejandria, Brooks's win represents the growing diversity in pageantry: 'Brooks's unique look and mixed heritage challenge outdated beauty standards. She shows that representation matters, and beauty comes in all forms. We're all uniquely beautiful, and Alexie embodies that confidence.' Alejandria also praises Brooks's national costume, which blends traditional Filipino elements with modern flair: 'It's a creative way to preserve our culture while making it relevant and captivating for today's global audience. It celebrates who we are with pride and style.' What aspects of Brooks' journey do you find most inspiring? Ryan Banks, 35, Architect and Show Director based in Dubai replied: 'For me, it's Brooks's humility. Even though she didn't win the crown she was aiming for at Miss Universe Philippines 2024, she embraced her title with grace. Her resilience throughout her journey has been truly inspiring. Brooks showed us that setbacks don't define you—they shape you into the champion you're meant to be.' When asked about her performance and national costume, Banks responded: 'Brooks was in her absolute best form! It was so clear that she really prepared for this moment. Her performance was way beyond her showing at Miss Universe Philippines—this was her best yet. And that national costume? It was a showstopper! The Philippine eagle representation was not just beautiful, it was powerful, just like her. Truly, she was born for this stage!' In response to the growing trend of inclusivity, Banks expressed: ' It's so heartwarming to see beauty pageants embracing all kinds of beauty—like Brooks's unique androgynous appearance. It's proof that beauty comes in many forms, not just the conventional. Brooks's heritage and individuality shine through in every way, and seeing that celebrated in pageantry is an exciting step forward for inclusivity worldwide.' A historic win for the Philippines This historic win marks the Philippines' third Miss Eco International title, following the amazing victories of Cynthia Thomalla in 2018 and Kathleen Paton in 2022. Brooks is now part of this prestigious legacy—and she's proving to the world that beauty and purpose can go hand in hand. With heart, heritage, and an unwavering mission for the planet, Brooks isn't just a beauty queen—she is a beacon of hope, a voice for change, and a champion for a greener, united future.
Filipino Times
16-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Ahtisa Manalo returns to compete for Miss Universe Philippines crown
Ahtisa Manalo is making another bid for the Miss Universe Philippines crown! The beauty queen, representing Quezon Province, introduced herself during the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 press presentation on Saturday, February 15. Manalo previously competed in the 2024 pageant, where she earned the title of Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024. In that same year, Chelsea Manalo was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024. Ahtisa also impressed the judges and made it to the Top 10 in the Miss Cosmo 2024 competition. This year, Ahtisa has returned with renewed determination and a stronger sense of purpose. She is hopeful that her experience from last year's pageant will help her achieve her dream of wearing the Miss Universe Philippines crown.
