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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Ahtisa Manalo gives a peek at her Miss Universe 2025 preparations during send-off

Ahtisa Manalo gives a peek at her Miss Universe 2025 preparations during send-off

Published Oct 24, 2025 08:28 am
Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Ahtisa Manalo is ready to represent the country at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok this coming November.
Speaking during her official send-off yesterday at Citadines Millennium Hotel in Ortigas, the 28-year-old beauty queen from Quezon expressed her excitement and gratitude to everyone, saying she is determined to give her "best self" as she strives to bring home the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown.
Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Ahtisa Manalo
Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Ahtisa Manalo
Ahtisa admitted to "feeling the pressure," as she knows all eyes will be on her. However, she added, "But I know that it’s one of those things that will push me to become better and to serve the Philippines better."
Pageant watchers can expect a strong fashion showcase in Bangkok. Ahtisa revealed that her national costume will be designed by Mak Tumang, the designer behind Catriona Gray’s iconic “Mayon Volcano” gown in 2018.
"It’s a national costume that hasn’t been seen in a while on the Miss Universe stage," she teased. "It’s a good representation of Filipino culture and also my own personality."
Her evening gown will be created by Val Taguba, who also designed what she wore in Miss Universe Philippines 2025. "My team has already seen the gowns," she said. "All I can say is they’re very happy."
Fans can also look forward to fireworks with her pasarela, which is being handled by seasoned coach Ian Mendajar and no less than MUPH CEO Jonas Gaffud.In terms of her physical fitness, Ahtisa said she made sure to finish her full workout regimen because "when we get to Thailand, our schedules will be grueling," she pointed out. "There’s no time to prepare when you’re there."
Ahtisa Manalo (middle) with officers of Miss Universe Philippines
Ahtisa Manalo (middle) with officers of Miss Universe Philippines
For nutrition, Ahtisa said she emphasizes a balanced diet. "I can’t deprive myself and make myself unhappy just to force certain kinds of food. I’m mindful, but I make sure I’m fueling myself well."
Beyond beauty and fitness, Ahtisa’s heart remains with Alon Akademie, her personal advocacy that empowers the youth. "I believe in teaching people how to fish instead of giving them a fish," she said.
"If I can help guide the future of our country, that’s what truly matters to me."Ahtisa revealed that she recently had a bout of the flu, which forced her to take a week off from training."I felt like I wasted a whole week not being able to prepare,’ she revealed.
"But my mom told me, 'You’ve prepared for this for 18 years. What’s a week off? You’re human.' That reminded me to be kind to myself."
Miss Universe Philippines Ahtisa Manalo with her mother and sister
Miss Universe Philippines Ahtisa Manalo with her mother and sister
"As much as I’m pushing myself, I should also remember to be kind to myself. Seeing everyone here supporting my dreams, it’s a reminder that I’m well-loved. I’ll fight, but I’ll also be happy and content with who I am because who I am is enough," Ahtisa narrated.
As she heads to Bangkok, Ahtisa is aware that she carries the hopes of Filipinos, many of whom remain enthralled and inspired by her humble beginnings in pageantry. "It took 18 years and three attempts to get this crown," she said.
"So, I hope anyone who hears my story sees that your dreams can seem far-fetched to other people, but as long as you push for them, as long as you work hard and never give up, it’s possible. I’m a living example of that."
Among those who delivered their send-off greetings to show their support for Ahtisa were Miss Universe Philippines Executive Vice-President Voltaire Tayag, MUPH National Director Ariella Arida, Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup-Lee, The Miss Philippines Supranational 2026 Katrina Llegado, The Miss Philippines Eco International 2026 Gabriella Mai Carballo, and several other queens who wished Ahtisa well on her journey to the Miss Universe crown.
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