In a triumphant return home, Michelle Dee, though without the Miss Universe crown, received a regal welcome befitting a queen.
The Filipina beauty landed at NAIA Terminal 1, greeted by her mother Melanie Marquez, Miss Universe Philippines national director Shamcey Supsup-Lee, and friends Rhian Ramos and Samantha Panlilio.
Emerging an hour later at the arrival area, Dee addressed the media and supporters, expressing gratitude, “Sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam na nakauwi na ako. Nakakataba ng puso… Sayang. Pero lahat ng nangyayari may dahilan [It feels great to be home. I did my best to win the title. Too bad we didn’t, but I believe everything happens for a reason].”
Despite the setback, Dee found solace in representing the Philippines admirably. “As you have seen, we won the special awards,” she said, citing achievements such as Best National Costume and the Voice for Change Gold Award.
“That’s a testament to how prepared the Philippines was…we were able to show the universe what we are made of.”
Expressing gratitude to her fans for their unwavering support, Dee acknowledged, “I started doing this because of your push. I wouldn’t have gotten this far without all of you.”
Looking ahead, Dee affirmed her commitment to her multifaceted career. “Crown or no crown, I will continue my work as an actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.”
She teased upcoming collaborations with Miss Thailand’s Anntonia Porsild, revealing exciting plans for their popular tandem, #PorDee.
Returning to the Philippines after her Top 10 finish, Dee confirmed her homecoming on Instagram, emphasizing, “I am home.”
While Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Palacios secured the Miss Universe 2023 title, Dee’s Top 10 journey brought pride to the Philippines, marked by wins in Best in National Costume, ‘Spirit of Carnival,’ and the ‘Voices for Change’ category.
Though the crown eluded her, Dee joins the ranks of proud Filipina titleholders, contributing to the country’s four Miss Universe victories. As she embarks on new endeavors, her journey remains an inspiration for Filipinos worldwide.
The Daily Netizen 