MANILA, Philippines — Philippine bet Michelle Dee concluded her Miss Universe 2023 journey in the Top 10 during coronation night Saturday in El Salvador.
Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua was crowned Miss Universe 2023 with Anntonia Porsild of Thailand as first runner-up and Moraya Wilson of Australia as second runner-up.
Dee was one of the Gold winners of Voice of Change special awards, along with Angola and Puerto Rico, for her autism acceptance, inclusivity and empowerment advocacy. Dee also received the “Spirit of Carnival” award.
The Kapuso actress dazzled in red swimwear during the swimsuit portion of the pageant. She sported a black gown created by Mark Bumgarner drawing inspiration from 106-year-old Kalinga tattoo artist (mambabatok) Apo Whang-od in the evening gown segment.
In her social media, Dee posted, “We did what we could but destiny has greater things for us! Everything ALWAYS happens for a reason! I’m still trying to compose my thoughts & feelings with everything going on, but all I know is I’m truly indebted to all of you! We showed the whole universe what our #BAYANIHAN spirit can do and let’s keep shaking them. Mahal na mahal ko kayo.”
Dee is the daughter of Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez and cousin of Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 Winwyn Marquez.
Mexico will be the host country of the next edition of Miss Universe.
The Autism Society Philippines has congratulated Dee, an ASP goodwill ambassador, for her accomplishment.
The national director of Miss Universe Philippines Shamcey Supsup-Lee has also praised Dee.
She penned a message on her social media for Dee, saying, “To Michelle, words are not enough to express how immensely proud I am of you and your relentless drive to elevate your cause on the Universe stage. Being awarded as a gold winner in the Voice for Change category is a true testament to your dedication and your ability to walk the talk like a true queen. Securing a place in the top 10 is a remarkable achievement in itself. You have put the Philippines back on the map as a pageant powerhouse, and for that, we are immensely grateful.”
“In my heart, I still believe you deserved a spot in the top 5. But as I often say, we can only control so much; the rest is beyond our grasp. Yet, in uniting the Filipino people and showing that kindness can indeed move mountains and create change, you have already triumphed. We eagerly await your return, our Queen. You’ve made us all so proud,” she added.