Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Marquez Dee has been chosen as one of 10 silver finalists of Voice for Change video competition at the 72nd Miss Universe Competition in El Salvador.

Lebanese jeweler Fred Mouwad announced the 10 finalists for the special award during the preliminary competition held in El Salvador Wednesday night (Thursday morning Manila time). The Voice for Change video contest is presented by Mouwad and CI Talks.

On finals night, three gold winners of Voice for Change will receive a US$12,000 cash prize, Mouwad announced.

Other candidates in the Voice for Change were delegates from Angola, Brazil, Chile, Lebanon, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe.

Mouwad said the mission of Voice for Change is to continue enabling all the Miss Universe delegates on their journey of being ambassadors for their country.  "And for social change, we aim to amplify their voice so they can continue improving lives, society, and ultimately the world." 

"The Miss Universe Voice for Change contest is not just a one-time event. It's a commitment to making a lasting impact," he added.

Organizers, however, said the Voice for Change has no bearing in the selection of the next Miss Universe.

In Voice for Change, each delegate crafts a powerful video or up to  three minutes, championing a cause close to their heart. "It’s more than a competition; it’s a call for action, an invitation to transform the world, and a celebration of intelligence, integrity, and culture."

At the same event, the 85 contestants of the 72nd Miss Universe Competition paraded in swimsuits and evening gowns.

The preliminary competition will help select the top 20 semifinalists for the 2023 Miss Universe which will be announced on Nov. 18 (Nov. 19 Manila time).