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Michelle Dee to present Miss Universe Voice for Change award to Autism Society of the Philippines
Michelle Dee is set to present her Miss Universe special award, Voice for Change, to the Autism Society of the Philippines this week.
The Miss Universe Philippines Organization made the announcement on Instagram, a day after the beauty queen said on her Instagram broadcast channel that she was still waiting for the award to be released.
The Voice for Change award includes a $12,000 cash prize each for the three gold medal winners and their chosen charity. Michelle won along with Miss Angola and Miss Puerto Rico.
"Even after her Miss Universe stint, [Michelle] remains a staunch ally of her advocacy. A sign of her solid commitment to advance her causes. A real Queen, indeed," MUPH said.
"Thank you, Michelle and ASP, for giving voice to—and a bigger platform—for such a worthy cause."
Michelle competed in Miss Universe last year with an advocacy for autism awareness. Her winning national costume has a special detail that includes her two brothers, who are on the autism spectrum.
The MUPH apologized for the delay in releasing Michelle's Voice for Change award.
"The admin and accounting personnel assigned have resolved which account to deposit the prize to," MUPH said.
"Mea culpa. The delay was caused by the [communications] process of MUPH and not Miss Universe Organization," they added.
On her Instagram Broadcast Channel, Michelle said she was hoping the Voice for Change award will be released before the next set of winners are named in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant.
"The Voice For Change Award was undoubtedly one of the most important and the most personal award to encompass my journey," she said.
"As you all know—my brothers and those on the autism spectrum have been a lifeline of purpose and passion for the things that I do—even before my 7 year pageant journey started."
Aside from the Voice for Change, Michelle also took home the Spirit of Carnival Award, which includes a cruise trip. A fan asked MUPH on Instagram whether or not it has been awarded to Michelle.
"On the cruise prize, we are still looking for a viable break in the busy schedule of MMD. She has been working nonstop every day even after passing on her crown," MUPH replied.
Michelle ended her Miss Universe 2023 journey in the Top 10. Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua won the crown.
—Nika Roque/MGP, GMA Integrated News
