The pageant season is in full swing as two Filipina beauty queens have already arrived in their respective host countries to compete in two of the world's most prestigious pageants: Miss Universe and Miss International.
Chelsea Manalo is in Mexico for the Miss Universe pageant, while Angelica Lopez is in Japan, aiming to secure the country's 7th Miss International crown.
As anticipated from the Philippines' representatives, Chelsea and Angelica turned heads with their stunning looks on the first day of their respective pageants.
Check out their fabulous first-day outfits below.
CHELSEA MANALO ARRIVES IN MEXICO
On her first official day at Miss Universe 2024, Chelsea made a striking impression as a "golden Maria Clara."
The Bulakenya model donned a stunning golden archival creation by Cary Santiago for the pageant's registration.
She complemented the ensemble with jewelry by Manny Halasan and copper-colored heels.
Chelsea's look was curated by her stylist, Paris Roxas.
Before departing for Mexico, she did a photo shoot to highlight her outfit.
The location was the historic First United Building in Escolta, Manila.
The visually striking images were captured by celebrity photographer Seven Barretto, with art direction from Erwin Botin.
In a Facebook post, Cary shared the story of his first meeting with Chelsea at an event in June 2024—a moment that ultimately led him to lend her a stunning Filipiniana for her Miss Universe journey.
He mentioned providing two dresses for Chelsea's bid, uncertain if they would be selected.
He also extended his best wishes and support for the Pinay beauty queen.
Cary's Facebook post read (published as is): "June 2024 during the Bench TernoCon, I met our current MUPh Chelsea Manalo together with former MU R’Bonney Nola.
"We had a short talk and I told Chelsea that I will support her for her pageant stint. I am not good with pageant gowns to be perfectly honest but I told her I will pull out two outfits from my archive and its up to her or her team if she will wear it in any of her MU activities.
"Fast forward to today, this look would have been more beautiful on her had she worn nude pump shoes.
"Nonetheless, I wish you all the best sweetheart. May the stars align in your favor. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! [emoji]"
Chelsea's golden Cary Santiago dress was her second outfit.
For her air travel from the U.S. to Mexico and upon arrival, she chose a cozy look, featuring a white fluffy jacket layered over a ruffled white blouse, paired with denim jeans and dark brown heels.
ANGELICA LOPEZ ARRIVES IN JAPAN
Angelica Lopez embraced the colors of the Japanese flag with her ensembles.
While traveling to Japan, she donned a white long-sleeved top with a red pencil skirt adorned with large bows. She paired them with black pumps.
This impressive outfit was put together by Daniel Manila Createur and styled by Vhee Co.
Upon arrival, Angelica transformed her look with a dazzling red Filipiniana crafted by the same designer, and paired with nude pumps and gold chandelier earrings from Kataw.
Vhee Co styled this elegant ensemble as well.
Before reaching Japan, Angelica took part in a photo shoot with fashion photographer Mark Neto Diaz.
She posted the shots on her Instagram feed.
On Wednesday morning, October 30, Angelica attended the orientation for the Miss International 2024 pageant wearing an all-white ensemble.
Her outfit, featuring a tube top, blazer, and trousers, was designed by Glennze Mark Taguiang Aquino.
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