Chelsea Manalo 'fired up' after seeing Filipino-made Miss Universe crown

Chelsea Manalo is more determined than ever to win the Miss Universe title after seeing the crown, crafted by local jewelry brand, Jewelmer.

The Bulakenya queen stunned in her latest Instagram portraits which show her wearing a crown, also by Jewelmer, and a dress by Francis Libiran.

“Feeling fired up and determined to give my best after seeing the first Filipino-crafted Miss Universe crown up close!” Chelsea wrote.

The beauty queen also reflected on her journey and what it took to get to where she is now.

“Not exactly 377 steps over five years, but I, too, was years in the making,” she said.

“Hearing the story behind the creation of the Light of Infinity crown yesterday, I’m reminded of all the people who pushed and supported me to be who I am today. This isn’t just my fight—it’s ours,” she added. “Laban, Pilipinas!”

The Light of Infinity crown was unveiled on Wednesday. For the first time in Miss Universe history, the winner of this year's pageant will get to wear a Filipino-crafted crown.

It features the Philippines' national gem, the South Sea Pearl.

While the entire crown is adorned by South Sea Pearls and diamonds embellishing the wave-like details, the lone golden pearl at the center is the piece de resistance, which is reminiscent of a sun with diamond-filled rays.

Chelsea will vie for the country's fifth Miss Universe crown on the coronation night on November 16 (November 17, Philippine time). The Preliminary and National Costume competitions are set for Friday, November 15.

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.

Chelsea has stunned audiences with her portraits and outfits, even getting support from supermodel Tyra Banks.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by manalochelsea (@manalochelsea)

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News