Ready, set, vote!
Help Miss Philippines Celeste Cortesi enter the semifinals at the 71st Miss Universe Competition which will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana on Jan. 14, 2023.
"Hey Universe - voting is now open! It’s time to get to know the delegates and vote for your favorite to make it into the semifinals at the 71st MISS UNIVERSE competition! Download the Miss Universe app to vote now. Your first vote is free! The more you vote, the better chance your favorite delegate becomes the next Miss Universe! Voting ends on January 13th at 12:00pm ET," wrote the Miss Universe Organization on various social media platforms.
Cortesi, 24, will represent the Philippines in the most prestigious beauty pageant. In her bio uploaded on the pageant's site, Cortesi embarked on a transformational journey of self-discovery that led to more than just discovering her roots, it gained her the love of an entire nation and a purpose beyond herself. The full bio:
"Cortesi works with Save the Children Philippines focused especially on curbing hunger and the malnutrition crisis. The organization provides resources to the most vulnerable children to ensure they grow up healthy. It is a cause that is close to her heart, as it reminds her of her mother’s struggles in raising her and her siblings.
"She also supports MindNation, a mental health and well-being organization, that provides talks, training, and therapy to those that need it. Cortesi hopes to continue her studies in real estate and to pursue a career in the field. Her biggest dream is to move her mom back to the Philippines and to buy her a house for retirement," it added.
The Filipino-Italian beauty, who is also the new Miss PLDT Home titleholder, is no stranger to pageants, after representing the Philippines at the Miss Earth competition in 2018.
Cortesi showed grace, intelligence, and candor in conquering the Miss Universe Philippines stage. She shares, “I am excited to be part of the Miss Universe Philippines Organization. I will be working with them to advance my advocacies for women’s education and protection of our country’s indigenous people and rich cultural heritage.”
Besides her advocacies, Cortesi proves that she’s a queen with a uniquely beautiful heart. Throughout the Miss Universe Philippines pageant, she has been outspoken about her deep love and care for her family. “Since I was a kid, my parents have taught me the power of gratitude and kindness for everyone I meet. I always believe that being grateful creates a ripple effect and in turn, brings the best out of people.”
Cortesi further emphasized the importance of strong bonds with family and loved ones. In her winning answer at the final question and answer portion, she said, “If I could stop time, I would spend it with my family, especially my mother. It’s been two years since I haven’t spent time with my family because they live in Italy, and I came here in the Philippines just by myself. If I had a chance to spend one day, I would definitely be with my mom, and I would just tell her how much I love her and I miss her.”
As the newest PLDT Home Ambassador, Cortesi shows that strong connections can powerfully conquer distances. After winning the Miss Universe Philippines title, she even shared a heartwarming tribute for her mom on social media with the caption: “Far from each other, but always connected. To make you proud is the greatest fulfillment of my life.”
More than 80 girls are competing at the 71st Miss Universe pageant. Harnaaz Sandhu of India will crown her successor at the end of the event.