Chelsea Manalo paid tribute to the Philippines' rich tapestry of religious traditions with her stunning national costume for Miss Universe 2024.
The national costume presentation and the preliminary competition for the beauty pageant's 73rd edition took place in Mexico, Thursday, November 14, 2024 (November 15 in the Philippines).
Designed by Manny Halasan, Chelsea's national costume was highlighted by a headpiece inspired by the historic Manila Galleon Trade, the Spanish trade route that connected the Philippines and Mexico between 1565 and 1815.
Adorned with thousands of crystals and beads, the ensemble also incorporated Tongkaling bells and Inaul fabric from Mindanao, celebrating the richness of Filipino culture.
The gown also featured a striking image of Mother Mary on the back of its voluminous skirt, serving as a tribute to the introduction of Christianity in the country.
CHELSEA MANALO: HIRAYA NATIONAL COSTUME
Before the competition, Chelsea collaborated with fashion photographer Seven Barretto and art director Erwin Botin in a photo shoot designed to showcase her national costume. They were assisted by Claude Villahermosa and Dariel Miraflor.
Paris Roxas styled her, Kenneth Marcelino handled her makeup, and her hair was expertly done by Jerry Buanjavier and Angelu Dominguez.
Chelsea posted the photos on her Instagram account, accompanied by a caption that delves into the inspiration behind her national costume.
In the caption, she reveals that her costume, named "Hiraya," is inspired by an ancient Tagalog word meaning "hope" and "aspiration."
It symbolizes the transformative power of faith, illustrating how dreams can become reality and serving as a testament to divine guidance.
The caption read: "Hiraya is a vision of what will become…. It is clear in your mind, and it speaks truthfully in your heart. It is a vision of what and how things are in the future.
"Believing in once was a dream and aspiration to being able to touch and live it into reality.
"Faith can navigate us through life. No matter what religion we believe in. If we pray for something, devote and give our faith and work for it, in God’s perfect time everything is possible.
"Despite all the hardships, chaos, roadblocks and redirection that we go through, believe that there is hope and Divine guidance from a Higher Being."
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