Chelsea Manalo shares details of religion-themed Miss Universe national costume

Chelsea Manalo shared the story behind her Miss Universe national costume, which was inspired by the religions in the Philippines.

The Filipina beauty queen wore a gold dress with white sleeves designed by Manny Halasan. She wore a silver and gold headpiece and held two fans as she walked, reminiscent of what is used in the Philippine Muslim ethnic dance, the singkil.

In an Instagram post, the Bulakenya queen revealed that the name of her costume is “Hiraya.” It is an ancient Tagalog word meaning “sana,” “I hope,” or “I wish.”

According to her post, “Hiraya” is all about believing in a dream and aspiration until it becomes a reality.

“Faith can navigate us through life. No matter what religion we believe in,” Chelsea said.

“If we pray for something, devote and give our faith and work for it, in God's perfect time everything is possible. Despite all the hardships, chaos, roadblocks and redirection that we go through, believe that there is hope and Divine guidance from a Higher Being,” she added.

Chelsea’s national costume was also influenced by the history and relationship of the Philippines and Mexico, and the countries’ deep devotion to religion.

“The undeniable bond between our countries and the anecdotes and factual evidence of Mexican treasures and culture in our blood,” Chelsea said.

It was said during the show that the costume was inspired by the introduction of Christianity and Islam in the Philippines.

“A testament that religions can live peacefully and harmoniously, venerating and respecting each other's practices and beliefs together as one nation,” Chelsea said.

“Islam being the religion of our Muslim brothers and sisters, is represented here with the traditional fabric of Inaul from the Province of Sultan Kudarat and the ornaments and accessories like Tongkaling from the Island of Mindanao,” she added.

Tongkaling are bells that create a distinct sound when moved. It is believed to protect and bless those who wear it.

The gown also depicts the patterns of Islamic art.

Chelsea added that the dress also features Puni, which is the most popular art form in Bulacan.

As for Chelsea’s headpiece, it is actually a beaded boat to symbolize the Galleon trade, in which ships from Manila to Mexico introduced trading to the country.

Lastly, the bright blue train had an image of the Virgin Mary, which is Our Lady of Antipolo or Our Lady of Good Voyage. It was brought to the Philippines from Mexico in the 16th century and is one of the most significant and historical images of the Galleon Trade.

Chelsea will vie for the country's fifth Miss Universe crown on the coronation night on November 16 (November 17, Philippine time).

The 25-year-old won the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown in May, making her the first Filipino-Black American candidate to ever win the national title.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by manalochelsea (@manalochelsea)

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News