The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) organization sent shockwaves through the pageant community when they unexpectedly deviated from the norm and expanded the pool of finalists from the Top 10 to the Top 18. This decision was attributed to undisclosed “technical issues,” leaving many pageant fans astounded.
At approximately 9:07 pm, the eagerly anticipated Top 10 finalists were announced, and it was stated that they would proceed to compete in the highly anticipated evening gown competition. The list of candidates included prominent names such as Michelle Dee from Makati, Pauline Amelinckx from Bohol, Klyza Castro from Davao Oriental, Krishnah Gravidez from Baguio, CJ Opiaza from Zambales, Jan Marie Borbon from Bacolod, Jannarie Zarzoso from Agusan Del Norte, Rein Carrascal from Sorsogon, Airissh Ramos from Eastern Samar, and Samantha Panlilio from Cavite.
However, following an extended commercial break, host Xian Lim startled the audience when he announced that the MUPh organization had reconsidered their decision and opted to reintroduce the Top 18 finalists for the evening gown competition due to unforeseen technical difficulties. Lim further revealed that the organization had resorted to manually tabulating the results, a departure from the original process that involved the multidisciplinary professional services firm SyCip Gorres Velayo & Co.
The sudden change in the national pageant’s proceedings triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with fans expressing their disappointment and questioning the organizers’ lack of transparency in the selection process for the candidates. The absence of clear explanations regarding how the Top 18 were chosen only fueled the discontent among devoted followers of the pageant.
After a grueling four-hour event, Michelle Dee from Makati emerged as the victor of the 2023 Miss Universe Philippines pageant. Prior to the coronation night, Dee had been considered one of the frontrunners, making her victory all the more impressive and deserving.
In addition to the coveted Miss Universe Philippines title, other honors were bestowed upon deserving candidates. Pauline Amelinckx from Bohol was crowned as Miss Supranational Philippines 2023, while Krishnah Gravidez from Baguio received the title of Miss Charm Philippines 2023. These remarkable women showcased their exceptional qualities and talents throughout the competition, earning them their respective titles and the admiration of the pageant community.
While the unexpected turn of events and the subsequent backlash from pageant enthusiasts left a mark on the 2023 Miss Universe Philippines pageant, it is undeniable that the winners displayed grace, poise, and the qualities befitting representatives of their respective titles. The journey of these talented women has only just begun as they prepare to compete on the international stage, representing the Philippines and aiming for glory in the global Miss Universe competition.
