Michelle Dee grateful for recognition of her efforts despite falling short of winning Miss Universe crown

Miss Universe 2023 Top 10 Finalist Michelle Dee said Monday that she is grateful for recognition of her performance in the Miss Universe stage even if she fell short of winning the crown and has vowed to push for autism awareness and inclusivity.

Dee made the comments ahead of the adoption of the House Resolution commending her performance in the 2023 Miss Universe pageant held in El Salvador last November 19 and as the new Department of the Tourism ambassador.

“Sobrang nakakataba po talaga ng puso [to be recognized] because I really poured my heart and soul into representing the country we all love. I am just so ultimately grateful to be received like this even if hindi ko naiuwi iyong korona,” Dee told reporters.

[This is really heartwarming. I am grateful to be received like this even if I did not win the crown.]

“I am just happy and blessed to be a Filipino and represent all of you to the best of my abilities,” Dee said.

Dee also noted that while her Miss Universe journey is over, her commitment to advocating for those with autism remains just as strong.

“It is my lifelong mission to spread awareness towards autism inclusivity, acceptance and empowerment. I have two siblings in the autism spectrum, but I champion for millions for individuals across the world,” she said.

“Hindi ito nagtatapos just because tapos na ang Miss Universe. This is an advocacy that I did not choose but chose me and has given me a greater purpose. I am very excited to continue the campaigns we started,” she added.

[My advocacy won’t end just because the Miss Universe is over.]

Dee’s final black evening gown for the Miss Universe pageant was designed by Filipino fashion designer Mark Bumgarner and inspired by Apo Whang-Od, the oldest mambabatok of the Philippines.

Dee shared that her gown’s intricate patterns include the hourglass or the rice mortar pattern, the fern, and snakeskin, all of which have significant meaning in the Kalinga culture.

The hourglass or the rice mortar symbolizes spiritual shield, creation, fertility, and sustenance. Meanwhile, the fern means fertility, strength, health, and safe passage to the land of the dead. Lastly, the snakeskin pattern symbolizes safety, protection, health, shield, and strength.

Aside from finishing her Miss Universe journey as a Top 10 finalist, Michelle also won four special awards including Best National Costume.

—CACM, GMA Integrated News