Chelsea Manalo makes 'historic' stint at Miss Universe

More than a week has passed since Miss Universe Philippines, Chelsea Manalo, competed at the recently-concluded Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.

- JERRY DONATO

The latter hosted the event for the fifth time. The first was back in 1978, then followed in 1989, 1993, and 2007. In these editions, it was elusive for the Philippine delegates to enter the semi-final round and participate either in the final's swimsuit, evening gown, casual/final interview competition.

Chelsea was the fifth Pinay representative to join a Miss U Mexico edition and with the aspiration to bring home the country's fifth Miss U crown.

The result of her campaign was not the "historic" one every Filipino pageant enthusiast and fan wanted or wished it to be, Chelsea's representation and stint in the annual tilt of pulchritude and personality could still be counted as "historic."

Pitting against equally beautiful and smart beauties, Chelsea made it to the semifinals or Top 30, besting other 90 plus delegates. She broke the Philippines' non-placement status in a Miss Universe edition held in the said Latin/North American country.