Once the Top 5 candidates emerge in the highly anticipated Miss Universe Philippines 2024 competition, their destiny hangs on the challenging question-and-answer (Q&A) segment—a crucial assessment that could ultimately determine the winner of the coveted crown. Widely regarded as the most demanding section of the pageant, it offers the finalists a final opportunity to exhibit why they deserve to be crowned.
In the closing moments of the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 event, the spotlight shone on the newly crowned titleholder Chelsea Manalo of Bulacan, alongside fellow finalists Stacey Gabriel, Ahtisa Manalo, Tarah Valencia, and Christy McGarry, as they eloquently tackled their chosen questions.
Let's delve into how each contestant fared:
Chelsea Manalo, hailing from Bulacan, was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024. When asked how she would use her beauty and confidence to empower others, she articulated her journey as a woman of color, breaking stereotypes and inspiring women by believing in herself and the support of her peers. Standing as a beacon of transformation, she acknowledged the solidarity of the delegates who shaped her.
Stacey Gabriel, the first runner-up from Cainta, shared her inspiring reflection on overcoming age stereotypes to stand on the pageant stage, symbolizing not only herself but every Filipino woman striving for limitless potential and representation.
Ahtisa Manalo, the second runner-up from Quezon Province, attributed her biggest life lesson to her grandmother, whose kindness and nurturing spirit shaped her values and perception of womanhood. Her grandmother's selflessness became a guiding light in her journey.
Tarah Valencia, the third runner-up from Baguio, considered her participation in Miss Universe Philippines 2024 as her greatest achievement, a transformative milestone that shattered self-imposed limitations and nudged her towards becoming an inspirational figure for others.
Christy McGarry, representing Taguig and securing the fourth runner-up position, reflected on the challenges faced by Filipino women today, particularly the constraints imposed on them. She emphasized the importance of transcending these limitations through resilience and empowerment.
In the crucible of the Q&A session, these exceptional women demonstrated poise, wisdom, and grace, embodying the essence of the modern empowered woman—each leaving an indelible mark on the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 stage.
