Metro Manila, Philippines – Philippine bet Ahtisa Manalo displayed festive beauty and grace with her “Queen of Philippine Festivals” national costume at the 74th Miss Universe pageant on Wednesday, Nov. 19, held in Thailand.
Manalo walked the runway in the creation of Filipino designer Mak Tumang as an “embodiment of celebrations and good vibrations” at the IMPACT Challenger Hall.
Tumang said he designed Manalo’s Maria Clara dress with embroidery motifs, such as the classic abanico fan and palay in the upper ensemble, and a skirt adorned with over 65,000 “hand-cut, die-cut, and heat-pressed” petals.
He also made references to Pampanga’s Giant Lantern Festival, Lucban’s Pahiyas Festival, and Baguio’s Panagbenga Festival.
The peineta — a large, decorative hair comb that is a classic accessory of the Maria Clara look — was reimagined as a halo-like crown.
“With every step, she becomes the living festival of the Philippines — carrying the brilliance of a thousand lanterns, the warmth of Filipino hospitality, and the timeless grace of María Clara onto the Miss Universe stage,” Tumang said.
A pageant veteran, Manalo is vying for the country’s fifth Miss Universe crown.
The coronation night will be held on Friday.
