MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee has set a high standard for Filipinos and pageant fans with her introduction during the preliminary competition of the 72nd MIss Universe pageant in El Salvador.
Michelle and 83 other candidates all took the stage for their introductions wearing dresses from Clarisse Designs, the official pageant wear sponsor for this year's edition.
As she teased in videos for the rehearsals, Michelle introduced herself as "Michelle Marquez Dee, Filipinas!" — honoring her mother Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez and recognizing the El Salvador by pronouncing the Spanish name for the Philippines.
Wearing a bluish-gray Clarisse Designs dress, the applause Michelle received nearly rivalled those of fan favorites Thailand's Anntonia Porsild and hometown bet Isabella García-Manzo.
Occuring in the preliminary competition are the swimsuit and evening gown portions; Michelle will be wearing a new design by Mark Bumgarner in the latter.
On November 16 (the 17th in the Philippines) will be the national costume portion, while the coronation event will be on the 18th (November 19 in the Philippines).
Each of the delegates are vying to succeed Filipino-American R'Bonney Gabriel for the Miss Universe title, with Michelle hoping to win the Philippines' fifth-ever crown.
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