The Filipina beauty queen won the special award.
In a video uploaded by the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), it announced that Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo was recognized as the 73rd edition’s Best in National Costume.
“Proudly representing their homeland! The National Costume is a way for contestants to share their country’s story, traditions, and values with the world,” the pageant’s official social media account wrote.
The dress, designed by Manny Halasan, was given the name ‘Hiraya,’ which “gives homage to the Philippines’ diverse history and culture.”
For example, its usage of the Inaul, representing the Muslim community as it is the traditional fabric of Sultan Kudarat.
The bells, known as Tongkaling in Mindanao, also gives off distinctive sound with movement.
The Philippines’ links to the Spanish colonial period was recognized with the Galleon headpiece, as well as the gown’s silhouette being similar to that of the Our Lady of Antipolo.
Finally, from Chelsea’s hometown of Bulacan, was the Puni. It is an art form that “creatively uses coconut fronds to craft stunning decirations,” the Miss Universe Philippines described.
Chelsea Manalo competed as one of the 126 delegates in the recent Miss Universe competition held in Mexico last November 17 (Manila time).
She finished her journey in the Top 30, but was later given the inaugural Miss Universe Asia title.