Chelsea Manalo Screams Universe, and We’re Here for It

Sa kinang ng perlas at halimuyak ng sampaguita, nahahayag ang kagandahan ng isang Pilipina—pinagpipitagan, kinagigiliwan, at lubos na hinahangaan. Ang bawat paggalaw at pagpapakita ng kanyang katangian ay tila isang sayaw ng dignidad at karangalan, na nagbibigay inspirasyon sa lahat ng nakakakita.

From the province of Bulacan who’s known for people who usually speak deep Filipino, Chelsea Manalo is truly “isang perlas ng ating lahi” who pushes boundaries by becoming the first Filipina Black American to win the Miss Universe Philippines crown. 

Her win in the national pageant feels like unlocking a world of opportunities for Filipinas aspiring to shine in pageantry, no matter their background or the stereotypes they face. It’s like opening a new chapter that celebrates greater representation and inclusivity in an industry that often favors Euro-centric features.

“I don’t think justifying a race or color can set us apart from anyone or anything we want to achieve,” she shares. “But as a woman who has made it to represent the Philippines as a woman of color, I strongly believe that I am not only creating opportunities for others like me but also empowering and being empowered.”

And being one of the figures of beauty in the country, Chelsea’s definition of beauty is more than what meets the eye. She explains that beauty is about “who we are inside and how we present ourselves in every situation.”

Chelsea’s belief is that true beauty often shines through the kindness we show and the way we interact with others. It’s clear that her heart beats for hospitality—she has a genuine love for talking to and assisting people. And if she weren’t Miss Universe Philippines, you’d probably find her brightening someone’s day in the hospitality industry, where her warm and welcoming nature would truly sparkle.

With a smile that lights up any room, Chelsea’s charm and grace are as captivating off the stage as they are on it. Describing herself as “fun and easy to get along with,” she’s more than ready to share her makeup secrets with everyone.

When it comes to her everyday makeup routine, Chelsea keeps it effortlessly chic. She loves a less-is-more approach that highlights her best features while enhancing them subtly. Her go-to look focuses on a dewy finish with minimal foundation and sultry eyes, achieved by emphasizing her lashes with mascara, taking advantage of her natural curl. She’s a fan of glowing skin and a fresh look, using just the essentials to create a radiant appearance.

As for makeup trends, Chelsea prefers sticking with timeless classics. She’s excited by the idea of embracing one’s natural beauty with just a touch of mascara, blush, and a good lip gloss for an everyday look. For her, less makeup often translates to a more genuine expression of her unique beauty, showing that sometimes a simple touch—much like the delicate beauty of a sampaguita—is all you need to shine.

Parcinq sat down with Chelsea to get to know her better, her preparations for the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico this November, and everything in between.

Q. How’s your preparation for the upcoming Miss Universe in Mexico this year? 

Chelsea: “It has started to become more serious than it was before. I am now more focused, as there are only a few days and months left to prepare. I am also immersing myself in all the culture and arts I can experience from traveling, mostly in the Mindanao region. Despite being busy, I make sure to look after my health and spend time with my parents and friends.”

Q. What aspects of the competition are you focusing on to ensure you’re at your best? 

Chelsea: “I focus on everything and always make sure to express my ideas clearly, whether it’s about design or any important topics. I strive to be present and engaged. However, right now, my primary focus is on my mental and physical health. Since the night of the coronation, with the continuous events and shoots, I’ve made it a priority to ensure I rest well.”

Q. Looking back, what moment in your journey stands out as the most significant in shaping who you are today?

Chelsea: “The moments of doubt always creep in when I feel lost or when I think I’m about to give up. Instead of letting these moments bring me down, I use them as motivation to keep fighting for what I want to achieve.”

Q. In what ways do you hope your win will inspire others, particularly those from underrepresented communities?

Chelsea: “If their stories aren’t heard, I will be the one to speak for them, as they come from underrepresented communities. I also believe that everyone possesses beauty and goodness, so wherever and whenever it may be, I will always advocate for them and support their visibility—whether in tourism, culture, or their communities.”

Q. Any message to all your fans?

Chelsea: “Thank you so much for believing in me and supporting me on this journey. Your support plays a huge role in making me feel proud and loved. Sometimes, when I see the art and messages I receive from you, it feels like it's still day one. I also want to commend you for being so kind, and I hope you will always strive to be grateful and appreciative of all blessings, big or small.”

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Keralift, Brow Sculpting and Nails by Strokes Beauty

Photography by Rxandy Capinpin

Art Direction by Joe Andy

Fashion Film by Ian Francisco

Videography by Anghel Millar

Creative Direction by Bettina Erquieza

Gaffer Edward Logarta

Makeup by Mickey See

Hair by Jerry Javier

Styling by Perry Tabora

Jewelry from Jewelmer

Production Design by Jagger Studios

Shot at Olympus Studios

Special thanks to Momoi Supe, Miss Universe Philippines, Eljohn Mendoza and Mau Deleon