Just days after being crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025, Ahtisa Manalo opened up about her pageant journey, the friendships she built, and her determination to bring home the Miss Universe crown later this year.
Manalo, a returning candidate and former Binibining Pilipinas International titleholder, admitted she couldn’t sleep after the coronation night — her mind already racing toward preparations for the Miss Universe pageant happening six months from now in Bangkok.
“I couldn’t sleep right away,” she said. “I kept thinking, what do I need to do for Thailand, for us to win Miss Universe?”
Her MUPH victory didn’t come easy. She said her biggest growth came from learning to silence her inner perfectionist.
“Last year, I was always in my head. This time, I made sure I was present in every moment, getting to know people, and enjoying every part of the competition,” she shared.
One of the most touching parts of her journey was the support she received from fellow candidates and pageant veterans like Winwyn Marquez, Katrina Llegado, and Yana Aduana.
“When I won, I saw how much they celebrated for me. Even though they had to give up on their dreams, they were really happy for me,” she said. “That was very touching.”
Manalo also showed grace under pressure during the coronation night, when she tripped after her heel caught her gown. Still, she stood up confidently and continued.
“I’ve judged a lot of pageants, and the women who usually win are the ones who show their hearts,” she said. “Even if I fall, I’ll try again. I’ll give it my best.”
She credits her ability to stay grounded to her support system — her family, friends, and team.
“They always remind me that I’ll win. And I choose to focus on the positive things — like people from my school 15 years ago messaging me good luck. That kind of love, I hold on to it,” she said.
Now preparing for Miss Universe, Manalo said her top priority is getting “really, really fit” — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
“Being fit shows in your mind, the way you speak, the way you stand. That’s my number one project,” she shared.
She hinted at exciting surprises for the international stage, from her pasarela to her wardrobe. Even designers from abroad have begun offering their support, including one from Thailand.
“It just shows that Filipino beauty queens are not only loved by local fans, but by pageant supporters all over the world,” she said.
Manalo believes the number five is her lucky charm — May is her birth month, she received five signs before joining, and there were five seats left on her flight to Laoag for her contract signing.
“I want to bring the fifth crown to the Philippines. Five is my lucky number,” she declared.
To those who supported her from the start, she expressed deep gratitude.
“I wouldn’t be here without all of you,” she said.
And as for her love life? Manalo is proudly single — and focused.
“If someone comes into my life, they have to understand that my goal is Miss Universe. The only way they can be in my life now is if they support that and work toward the same goal,” she said.