“...growth isn't always reaching the finish line, sometimes it's about knowing when to take a different path.”

Chella Falconer, Cebu Province’ bet at Miss Universe Philippines 2025, announced her withdrawal from the national pageant through a gratitude-filled Instagram post on April 1, calling her short-lived journey “nothing short of amazing.”

In her IG post, she lauded her month-and-a-half-long stint as a Miss U Philippines aspirant, “from the incredible experiences to the wonderful moments shared with the MUPH staff and fellow candidates.”

“I have cherished every second. Though my journey is coming to an early close, my heart is full of gratitude for this opportunity,” she added.

The Cebuana beauty queen also expressed her thanks to “everyone who has supported me along the way– thank you from the bottom of my heart.” 

“This may be a pause, but growth isn't always reaching the finish line, sometimes it's about knowing when to take a different path,” the 25-year-old pageant queen said. 

Chella also clarified that she never backed out of another pageant, contrary to the circulating rumors that she withdrew from Miss World Philippines. 

“This is my first time stepping away from a national competition. Just to set the record straight– I have never screened for MWP, so the rumors about me backing out from it aren't true. It was Miss Elite World (International Comp) that I didn't pursue but there was a reason for that,” she Chella concluded.

According to a report by Jade Yap from GMA News Online, the Cebu Province bet is the second Miss Universe PH candidate to withdraw from the national pageant. 

Los Angeles’ representative Hannah Michelle Gilmore also pulled out last February. 

The Miss Universe Philippines 2025 coronation night is on May 2, 6 p.m., at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The winner will be crowned by Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and reigning Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo, and will represent the Philippines in Miss Universe 2025, slated to happen on November 21 at the Impact Muong Thong Thani Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.