Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee, expresses overflowing gratitude for the love and support of Filipinos during her journey in Miss Universe 2023. Despite falling short of securing the coveted Miss Universe crown for the Philippines, Michelle remains thankful for the overwhelming backing she received.
The 72nd edition of the international beauty pageant took place in El Salvador on November 19, 2023 (Philippine time), where Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios was crowned Miss Universe 2023. Michelle, representing the Philippines, made it to the Top 10.
Despite the outcome, Michelle still feels the love and support of her fellow countrymen, evident upon her return to the Philippines on Saturday, November 18.
In a recent interview on “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda” on November 26, Michelle had the opportunity to answer the final question posed to the Top 3 finalists—Miss Thailand Anntonia Porsild, Miss Australia Moraya Wilson, and Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios. Host Boy Abunda asked, “If you could live one year in another woman’s shoes, who would you choose and why?”
Michelle clarified that her answer was meant in good fun and not as a comparison to the responses of the other finalists. She chose Apo Whang-od, citing Whang-od as an incredible symbol of cultural preservation and ageism. Michelle emphasized the importance of defying boundaries and stereotypes, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique stories and traditions.
The interview also addressed the controversy surrounding a video involving Miss Universe Organization owner Anne Jakrajutatip allegedly dismissing Michelle. Michelle explained that she wasn’t feeling well that day and had already been sick since leaving El Salvador. She powered through the first segment, and when the organization learned about her condition, they escorted her out after the segment was finished.
Responding to Boy’s question about the “move on Thailand” statement made by Anne in another viral video, Michelle acknowledged the fans’ passion but emphasized the need for better execution and delivery of such statements. While Michelle believes there was no malicious intent, she suggests a more respectful approach to interactions with fans.
Since Michelle Dee didn’t had the opportunity to answer a question in the Miss Universe stage. She still got the chance in The Fast Talk With Boy Abunda stage.
Before answering, Michelle clarified that she had no intention of comparing her response to the answers given by the three Miss Universe finalists. She emphasized that it was all in good fun and that she didn’t mean to imply anything.
Boy asked Michelle the Miss Universe question:
“If you could live one year in another woman’s shoes, who would you choose and why?”
“If I could choose in any woman’s shoes, it would be Apo Whang-od.
“She’s an amazing symbol of cultural preservation. She’s an amazing symbol of ageism.
“She has been defying boundaries, stereotypes.
“And that is something that I have tried to inspire everybody around me as well, which is to hone your unique story, own your traditions, love where you came from, love who you’re surrounded with.
“And truly, with that unique story, you can make your country proud, you can show the universe what your country has to offer and, in my case, my love for our country can really shake the whole universe as well.”
Michelle Marquez Dee
