Philippine bet Michelle Dee exuded a strong presence at the Miss Universe 2023 preliminary competition.
Hosted by Miss Universe 2022 titleholder R'Bonney Gabriel and model Vanessa Velasquez, the event took place at the National Gymnasium in San Salvador, El Salvador, on Wednesday night, November 15, 2023 (November 16 in the Philippines).
In the opening segment, Michelle mentioned the word "Filipinas" with pride and confidence.
The Kapuso actress-model looked stunning in her navy dress—from Clarisse Designs—embellished with sequins and intricate flower appliques.
In the swimsuit segment, Michelle was a captivating sight in her vibrant red swimsuit by Rubin Singer swimwear.
Michelle's swimsuit, named Polaris, can be purchased at the Miss Universe shop for PHP7,400.
At the evening gown segment of the Miss Universe 2023 preliminary competition, Michelle was a picture of elegance and grace in her custom Mark Bumgarner gown.
She chose a sparkling emerald green gown with cutouts that added a touch of allure and sophistication.
According to Voltaire Tayag, the director of communications for the Miss Universe Philippines Organization, Michelle expressed her desire to honor her mother, Melanie Marquez, and the iconic green gown she wore when she bagged the Miss International 1979 title.
Meanwhile, in an interview with Dyan Castillejo of ABS-CBN News, Michelle was very happy with her evening gown for the preliminary competition, expressing hope that Filipino fans would also appreciate and love it.
She said, "This gown for prelims, it's magnificent. It definitely screams, Michelle but it's a piece that I hope Filipinos are very, very proud."
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