Chelsea Manalo and mom overwhelmed after Miss Universe Philippines 2024 win

Chelsea Manalo is nothing but joyful after winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown at the grand coronation night on Wednesday.

According to a report by Aubrey Carampel on "Unang Balita," the Bulacan beauty queen "instantly thought" of her parents when she was announced the winner.

"I know that this was not just my dream but also their dream," she told the press. "I always have this dream of actually looking at myself in the mirror, wearing that sash and that crown. So when they announced my province, I couldn't feel anything, like literally."

"I'm really happy to be here," she added.

Her mother, Contessa Manalo was pushed to tears after her daughter's success.

"Sobrang saya ko po, naiiyak ako sa sobrang saya," she said. "Nagpapasalamat ako sa Panginoon, natupad 'yung pangarap ng anak ko."

Chelsea is half-American, the report added. She was raised by her mother and stepfather after her father passed away.

She bested 52 other candidates during the much-awaited coronation night held at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday and was crowned by Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee. She will represent the Philippines at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.

Alexie Brooks of Iloilo is Miss Eco International Philippines 2025, Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province is Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024, Tarah Valencia of Baguio is Miss Supranational Philippines 2025, and Cyrille Payumo of Pampanga is Miss Charm Philippines 2025. —JCB, GMA Integrated News