Louie Sison
Chelsea Anne Manalo, the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024, is making waves not just for her beauty and grace, but also for her unique background and the unwavering support of her parents. Let’s take a closer look at the 24-year-old queen’s journey and the role her family played in shaping the confident, empowered woman she is today.
In this post, we talked about 10 Fascinating Facts About Chelsea Manalo. In this article, we want to dig deeper into her family background.
Early Life and Family Background
Chelsea was born on October 14, 1999 in Meycauayan, Bulacan to a [Filipino mother, Contessa Manalo, and an African-American father].
However, her parents separated when she was just a year old in 2000.After her father passed away, Chelsea was raised by her mother and Filipino stepfather. Despite the challenges of growing up in a multi-ethnic household with divorced parents, Chelsea credits her mom and stepdad for always believing in her and supporting her dreams.
As Chelsea shared in an emotional moment after her win, “I know that this was not just my dream but also their dream. I always have this dream of actually looking at myself in the mirror, wearing that sash and that crown.”
A Rising Star in Modeling and Pageantry
Chelsea’s path to the Miss Universe Philippines crown began at a young age. She started modeling at just 14 years old, working with print magazines, fashion designers, and commercial companies. In 2017, while still in high school, she joined her first major pageant – Miss World Philippines, where she placed in the Top 15.
But Chelsea’s passion for pageantry went beyond just the glitz and glamour. She used her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, particularly youth empowerment and education for indigenous children.
Overcoming Insecurities and Embracing Her Identity
Growing up as a biracial Filipino-American, Chelsea faced bullying and discrimination because of her dark skin and hair texture. In her profile video for Miss Universe Philippines, she opened up about her struggles with insecurity and poor self-confidence.
“I was told that beauty has standards,” Chelsea shared during the pageant’s Q&A portion. “But for me, I have listened to always believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have.”With the help of her strong support system, Chelsea learned to embrace her unique beauty and identity. “They made me realize that I am beautiful in my own extraordinary way,” she said.
Making History as the First Black Filipino Miss Universe Philippines
On May 23, 2024, Chelsea made history when she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024, becoming the first Black Filipino woman to represent the country on the Miss Universe stage. Her win was celebrated as a major step forward in challenging traditional Filipino beauty standards, which have long favored Eurocentric features and lighter skin tones.
As one fan commented on social media, “Chelsea’s win challenges our ingrained preference for Eurocentric beauty and lighter complexions in our nation. Filipino beauty standard shattered into pieces.”
A Proud Daughter of Bulacan
Throughout her Miss Universe Philippines journey, Chelsea proudly represented her home province of Bulacan. She even paid homage to her roots in a stunning photoshoot inspired by Juan Luna’s iconic painting, “La Bulakenya” (The Woman from Bulacan).
Wearing a modern Filipiniana gown by designer Glen Lopez, Chelsea embodied the grace, strength, and beauty of the Bulakenyo spirit.
The Power of a Mother’s Love and Support
Perhaps the most touching moment of Chelsea’s Miss Universe Philippines reign so far has been the outpouring of love and emotion from her mother, Contessa Manalo.
In a viral video after the coronation night, Chelsea and Contessa shared a tearful embrace on stage, overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.“Naiiyak ako sa sobrang saya,” Contessa said. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa Panginoon, natupad ‘yung pangarap ng anak ko.” (I’m crying tears of joy.
I thank the Lord, my daughter’s dream has come true.)Contessa, along with Chelsea’s stepfather, have been her biggest cheerleaders, even taking on roles as her personal assistants, stylists, and makeup artists during the pageant. Their unwavering belief and support have undoubtedly been instrumental in Chelsea’s success.
Using Her Platform for Good
As Chelsea prepares to compete in the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year, she remains committed to using her platform to create positive change. She continues to advocate for youth education, especially for indigenous communities, through her volunteer work with organizations like Kids for Kids.
She also hopes to inspire others, particularly young girls of color, to embrace their unique identities and pursue their dreams fearlessly. “Because of these, I am already influencing a lot of women who are facing me right now,” Chelsea said during the Q&A portion. “As a transformational woman, I have here 52 other delegates with me who have helped me to become the woman I am.”
A Bright Future Ahead
With her historic win, Chelsea Manalo is poised to make an impact not just in the Philippines, but on the global stage. Her story of resilience, self-love, and the power of family support is one that will undoubtedly inspire many.
As she carries the hopes and dreams of the Filipino people with her to Miss Universe, Chelsea remains grounded in the values instilled in her by her parents – to always believe in herself and stay true to her vows.”I have a strong support system,” Chelsea said. “They made me realize that I am beautiful in my own extraordinary way.”
And with the love and guidance of her mother Contessa, her stepfather, and the entire nation behind her, there’s no doubt that Chelsea Anne Manalo will continue to shine bright and make the Philippines proud.
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