Just five days after the grand coronation of Miss Universe 2023, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) announced that Michelle Dee from the Philippines won the coveted title of Best in National Costume. The announcement came after the elaborate National Costume presentation that took place on November 17 during the 72nd Miss Universe held in El Salvador on November 18.
The MUO made the revelation on its social media accounts on Friday, November 24, stating, “And the National Costume Winner is… Michelle Dee! Chosen by the fans on our official Miss Universe app, Philippines is taking home the costume vote for this incredible outfit!”
Michelle Dee secured her fourth award at Miss Universe 2023, having previously won the Voice for Change Gold Award, Fan Vote winner, and Spirit of the Carnival Award. The Nicaraguan candidate, Sheynnis Palacios, emerged as the Miss Universe 2023 winner, with Thailand’s Anntonia Porsild as the first runner-up and Australia’s Moraya Wilson as the second runner-up.
However, instead of celebrating Michelle’s achievement in winning Best in National Costume, many fans expressed disappointment, questioning the fairness of the pageant. Showbiz reporter Cristy Fermin fueled the controversy by claiming that Karla Estrada, Daniel Padilla’s mother, had allegedly confirmed the split between Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla.
Netizens criticized the Miss Universe Organization for the alleged human error in announcing the Top 5, with Michelle mistakenly included in the list on the Miss Universe El Salvador Instagram account. The decision to award Michelle Best in National Costume sparked further controversy, with some fans calling it a consolation prize to pacify Filipino supporters.
Despite the outcry, Michelle Dee remained composed and expressed her thoughts on her Instagram Broadcast Channel during her flight back to the Philippines. She stated, “Best in National Costume?! [face screaming in fear emoji]” conveying a mix of shock, awe, disbelief, and intense excitement. Michelle emphasized the hard work put into her costume and shared her belief that they deserved the award.
The controversy surrounding Michelle’s recognition in the Best in National Costume category has ignited discussions about transparency, credibility, and integrity in the Miss Universe pageant, leaving fans questioning the fairness of the results.
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