Michelle Dee's final evening gown is a tribute to Apo Whang-Od, PH's last mambabatok

Michelle Dee came to the Miss Universe 2023 stage to bring her individuality, but more than that, she came to represent the Philippines and its people.

On Instagram, the Philippine bet shared the inspiration behind her head-turning Mark Bumgarner evening gown inspired by Apo Whang-Od during the grand coronation night of Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador.

"A tribute to a legendary Filipina who has become an icon, preserving the rich cultural heritage of indigenous tattoo art," the Sparkle beauty queen wrote.

Michelle said Apo Whang-Od has achieved global recognition and symbolizes timeless beauty, coinciding with the recent Miss Universe changes, including lifting age restrictions, championing inclusivity, and challenging age stereotypes.

"This evening gown draws inspiration from the icon, with every stitch crafted passionately and proudly dedicated to our country," she wrote.

"A true icon and the last of her kind, a symbol of bravery, beauty, and inclusivity... Whang Od," she added.

Apo Whang-Od is the last mambabatok, a traditional Kalinga tattooist, who taps tools into the skin—in the Philippines. She proudly wears the tattoos all over her arms and chest, which is the main design inspiration behind Michelle's evening gown. 

Michelle ended her Miss Universe 2023 journey in the Top 10.

Despite not winning the Philippines' fifth crown, the Sparkle beauty queen performed fiercely in the Miss Universe 2023. She was also recognized among the three gold medalists for the pageant's "Voice for Change" video competition.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by MMD (@michelledee)