Manalo outshined fifty-two contenders to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe competition set to take place in Mexico.
The representative from Taguig, Christi Lynn McGarry, secured the fourth runner-up position, while Tarah Valencia of Baguio was the third runner-up. The second runner-up was Maria Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province, and the first runner-up was Stacey Gabriel of Cainta.
(Miss Taguig)
(Miss Baguio)
(Miss Quezon Province)
(Miss Cainta)
The runners-up are guaranteed a crown, but their respective titles will be disclosed in a separate coronation ceremony.
The four titles up for grabs are Miss Supranational Philippines, Miss Charm Philippines, Miss Eco International Philippines, and Miss Cosmo Philippines.
When asked about "the hardest challenge you face as a Filipina woman, and what you do to hurdle that challenge," McGarry responded, "I think one of the biggest challenges that Filipinas face today are being limited. By still being shadowed by, unfortunately, men who are in society. My platform and me standing here in front of you today, I can encourage women that you, too, can stand up. You can be strong. You can be powerful. You can own your own destiny, like I plan to tonight."
(Screenshots from Empire Philippines live-streaming on YouTube)
