The entertainment world is buzzing once again — but this time, it’s not a rumor, it’s a revelation. Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Marquez Dee, has officially come out as bisexual, confirming what many in showbiz have quietly suspected for years.
In an exclusive tell-all interview with MEGA magazine’s special issue, Michelle finally put all the whispers to rest. With grace and honesty, she said, “I definitely identify myself as bisexual. I’ve known this about myself for as long as I can remember. I’m attracted to all kinds of beauty — every shape, every size.”
It turns out that being open and fluid runs in the family. Michelle shared how her mom, former Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez, would joke around, “She used to say, ‘When I was your age, I had five girlfriends!’”
Michelle also revealed she had a tomboyish side growing up — something her mom lovingly teased her about.
With this bold move, Michelle becomes the second Miss Universe Philippines titleholder to come out as bisexual, following in the footsteps of Beatrice Luigi Gomez, who publicly came out during her pageant journey in 2021.
Wait… was there something between Michelle and Mikee Quintos?
Now, here’s where things get extra juicy. With Michelle’s coming out, fans are revisiting one of the most talked-about speculations from years past — her alleged romantic connection with Kapuso actress Mikee Quintos, who’s now in a relationship with actor Paul Salas.
Back in 2019, during an exclusive interview with PEP.ph, Michelle firmly denied the rumors about her and Mikee.
“It was the first time I ever heard about it in an interview. We’ve been super close friends since high school. Our friend group is very tight — we basically grew up together.”
Michelle admitted she had a boyish vibe back then, which may have fueled the gossip. Having grown up on a ranch and falling in love with horseback riding, she wasn’t exactly your typical pageant queen.
She also opened up about how hurtful the rumors were at the time:
“I wish people wouldn’t spread things that aren’t true. In this industry, things spread so fast. And honestly… I’ve never even been in a relationship before.”
But flash forward four years later, and Michelle has stepped fully into her truth — just weeks after winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown. And while she never confirmed anything about Mikee beyond friendship, the fans (and the gossip mill) are more curious than ever.
So… was it just friendship, or something more?
With Michelle now living her truth proudly, everyone’s asking the same question: were the rumors about her and Mikee Quintos really that far off?
Whatever the truth may be, Michelle is finally calling the shots on her own story — and it’s giving main character energy.
Stay tuned. This tea might just keep brewing.