Michelle Dee 'crowns' Apo Whang Od

Michelle Dee didn't let the opportunity pass to crown her hero, Apo Whang Od.

In her latest Instagram post, the Miss Universe Philippines queen could be seen giving a shirt to the living legend with the text “Filipinas 2023” in front, and “MMD” printed in the back.

Michelle also “crowned” Apo Whang Od, beauty queen-style. Apo Whang Od also signed the sketch of Michelle’s long gown inspired by her.

“A Philippine legend and National Treasure. Forever inked on my body and in my heart,” Michelle said in her caption.

The actress and beauty queen also thanked her team for joining her on the 27-hour journey to get inked by the oldest and last mambabatok in Buscalan, Kalinga.

Michelle paid tribute to the legendary artist through her gowns for Miss Universe 2023 and her homecoming parade. Michelle also called Apo Whang Od an “amazing symbol of cultural preservation” and said that if she could ever live as another woman, she would choose her.

Michelle, a top 10 finalist in Miss Universe who won several special awards, is set to crown her successor at the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 pageant on May 22.

In February, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. honored Apo Whang Od for her contributions to the Philippine traditional arts. She was bestowed with the Outstanding Government Workers of 2023 and the Presidential Medal of Merit awards.

In 2023, Apo Whang Od was one of the cover stars of Vogue Philippines, where she exuded beauty and strength.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by MMD (@michelledee)

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News