Michelle Dee embarks on her second journey with Miss Universe Philippines, bringing a fresh perspective to the competition.
As a pageant veteran, she understands the importance of standing out from the crowd, and making a meaningful connection with the judges and fans.
But this time around, she takes a deliberate approach to focus on relatability.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) last April 13, 2023, she said, "I've always taken pride in being such a strong woman.
"But what I realized is that in order for you to become inspirational, aspirational, and just a transformational leader, then people have to relate to you and your struggles and what created that empowered woman that's standing in front of you.
"So, relatability is one of my main focuses here. Just telling my story."
PEP.ph caught up with Michelle after the swimsuit presentation of Miss Universe Philippines 2023 in Aqua Boracay.
MICHELLE'S SECOND TIME
The daughter of Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez revealed that she was resolute in joining Miss Universe Philippines for the second time.
With the pageant's age restriction currently set at 28, she recognized the opportunity and decided to seize it.
In fact, she made the decision to compete again right after she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines Tourism 2022, and one of the first people to know was Celeste Cortesi, the current titleholder of Miss Universe Philippines.
She recalled, "Actually, I decided to join siguro a week after the coronation night last year... So it was a long time coming.
"Celeste was one of the first people I talked to about it. So, preparation has been more than close to a year, rather.
"So, I've really prepared myself mentally and physically. And hopefully, it just translates on stage and towards the universe."
As a pageant veteran and a frontrunner, does this bring added pressure to Michelle's journey?
The Kapuso actress answered, "There's always pressure in everything that I do, but I thrive under pressure. I'm my worst critic, but I'm also my biggest fan.
"So I love putting myself outside of my comfort zone, and seeing if I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to."
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