Ahtisa Manalo wears 'Dyesebel'-inspired National Costume for Miss Cosmo 2024

Ahtisa Manalo dazzled with her National Costume inspired by the iconic Filipino character, Dyesebel, for Miss Cosmo 2024.

The Filipina beauty queen wore a bright, shiny orange ensemble with a mermaid silhouette created by Ehran Montoya. It is decorated with scale-like details, and completed with elaborate hand- and head-pieces reminiscent of a mermaid’s tail.

As shown in videos shared by the beauty queen, Ahtisa walked gracefully down the runway, with movements similar to swimming in the ocean.

According to Ahtisa, the costume pays tribute to both Filipino legends and contemporary pop culture.

“It captures the essence of Filipino pop culture, with flowing ocean-inspired fabrics that evoke the beauty and grace of this mythical sea creature. The design is a celebration of both the rich heritage and the contemporary allure of Philippine comic book legends,” Ahtisa wrote on Facebook.

“More than just a symbol of myth and beauty, Dyesebel represents the power of storytelling in shaping our identity and connecting generations,” she added. “Pop culture encapsulates the spirit of our shared heritage, blending tradition with contemporary artistry. It deserves to be celebrated for its unique ability to unite people, inspire creativity, and keep our cultural legends alive in the modern world.”

Before this, Ahtisa stunned in a Visayan goddess look.

Ahtisa flew to Vietnam last week to represent the Philippines on the international stage. While in Vietnam, she and her fellow candidates travelled to Ninh Binh Province. She also bonded with Filipina-Kiwi actress-beauty queen Franki Russell, who is her roommate.

During the pageant’s preliminary activities, the Quezon Province native won the “First Station” of Miss Cosmo’s People’s Choice Award. She is also vying for the Social Ambassador Award and asked fans for support.

Miss Cosmo 2024 is currently being held in Ho Chi Minh City. It kicked off on September 15 with a sashing ceremony and will run until October 5.

Ahtisa previously represented the country during Miss International in 2018, where she was named 1st Runner-Up.

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News