By Nimfa L. Estrellado Ma. Ahtisa Manalo, Miss Universe 2025 Third Runner-Up, attends her provincial homecoming in Quezon after earning a to...
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| Ma. Ahtisa Manalo, Miss Universe 2025 Third Runner-Up, attends her provincial homecoming in Quezon after earning a top finish at the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok. (Quezon PIO) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - “Buong laban ko pong ipinagmamalaki na ako ay taga-Candelaria at taga-Quezon. Siniguro kong ginawa ko ang aking best upang maging proud ang mga taga-Candelaria at mga taga-Quezon. Maraming salamat po sa patuloy ninyong suporta at pagmamahal,” Manalo said during her provincial homecoming.
When Ma. Ahtisa Manalo stepped onto the Miss Universe stage in Bangkok, she carried more than a sash and a crown. She carried the name of her hometown, Candelaria, and the province of Quezon—places that later recognized her achievement.
Manalo finished as Third Runner-Up at Miss Universe 2025, earning praise on one of the world’s most competitive pageant stages. That result highlighted not only her international placement but also the discipline and perseverance that defined her journey.
Her pageant path began at a young age, with early competitions shaping her confidence and stage discipline while supporting her education. This foundation led to national prominence in 2018, when she won Binibining Pilipinas International and placed first runner-up at Miss International the same year.
After years of competition, Manalo returned to national pageantry with renewed focus, placing second runner-up at Miss Universe Philippines before representing the country again internationally. In 2025, she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines, qualifying to compete on the Miss Universe stage and represent Quezon worldwide.
At the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, her steady performance culminated in a Third Runner-Up finish, seen as the peak of her long pageantry career. Her showing stood out for composure and consistency on the global stage during the competition.
In Candelaria, the local government led by Mayor George “Ogie” Suayan recognized Manalo for bringing pride and distinction to the town. The acknowledgment emphasized her role as a source of inspiration for young Candelariahins aiming for national and global platforms.
At the provincial level, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved a resolution honoring Manalo for elevating the name of Quezon and the Philippines. The resolution was led by Vice Governor Anacleto "Third" Alcala III and presented during the program by Board Member JJ Aquivido, chairperson of the Committee on Tourism.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Government of Quezon, under Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan, conveyed its commendation for Manalo’s intelligence, grace, and performance on the international stage. The message, delivered through 2nd District Board Member Keith Mikhal “Doc Kim” Tan, underscored the province’s pride in her achievement.
Before returning to Quezon, Manalo was welcomed in Manila, where supporters gathered to celebrate her Miss Universe 2025 finish. That capital homecoming reflected her nationwide following and the broad public support behind her international campaign.
Her return home also offered space to reflect on the identity she consistently carried throughout the competition. From national selections to the global stage, Manalo repeatedly emphasized where she came from and who she represented.
The homecoming gave Manalo space to reflect on the long road behind her, marked by setbacks and growth. She spoke of the experiences that shaped her and the determination required to keep moving forward.
“Lahat po ng pinagdaanan ko ay naging bahagi ng kung sino ako ngayon. Hindi naging madali ang bawat laban, pero pinili kong magpatuloy at matuto sa bawat hakbang. Bitbit ko po ang lakas ng mga taong naniwala sa akin.”
The moment highlighted the shared effort behind her journey, as she acknowledged the people who supported her along the way. Her words underscored how the honor extended beyond individual success.
“Ang tagumpay na ito ay hindi lang para sa akin kundi para sa lahat ng sumuporta at nagtiwala. Patuloy po akong mangangarap at magsusumikap para sa susunod na yugto ng aking buhay. Maraming salamat po sa walang sawang paniniwala at pagmamahal.”
The recognition marked a milestone in Manalo’s long pageantry career spanning more than 18 years. Her Miss Universe 2025 finish was widely seen as the culmination of years of participation in national and international beauty competitions.
Beyond titles and placements, the tribute reflected hometown values—resilience, humility, and pride in one’s roots. In honoring her, Candelaria and Quezon affirmed that global achievement can remain closely tied to home.
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