Ahtisa Manalo’s Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Win: A Triumph of Persistence and Purpose

On May 2, 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the Philippines witnessed a story come full circle as Maria Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025. More than just another beauty pageant victory, her win carries a deeper significance—it is a celebration of resilience, personal growth, and the value of never giving up on one’s dreams.

Ahtisa’s crowning moment is a rare instance in the pageant world where a candidate’s backstory resonates as powerfully as her performance. Having placed first runner-up at Miss International 2018 and second runner-up at Miss Universe Philippines 2024, she returned to the stage this year for her third—and likely final—attempt. This time, she didn’t just come close. She claimed the crown.

Her win is being celebrated not just because of her undeniable beauty and elegance, but because of what she represents: perseverance, authenticity, and quiet strength. In a highly competitive field of 66 candidates, she stood out not only in the way she walked and talked, but in the way she carried her journey with grace.

During the competition’s Q&A segment, when asked what it means to lead by example, Manalo delivered a thoughtful, grounded response that reflected her real-life roles as a businesswoman and mentor. It was an answer not filled with flashy slogans or abstract ideals, but one rooted in lived experience—a refreshing and relatable quality that many believe helped seal her win.

Another moment that captured attention was a minor stumble on stage when she stepped on her gown. Rather than being thrown off, she calmly regained her composure, smiled, and continued with poise. It’s a small moment, but one that symbolized her larger story: setbacks don’t define you—your recovery does.

Outside of the pageant spotlight, Ahtisa is already accomplished. She owns several businesses in the Philippines and Australia and is an advocate for children’s welfare and LGBTQ+ rights. Her personal and professional life demonstrates that she is not only prepared to wear the crown, but to carry the responsibilities that come with it.

Looking ahead, Ahtisa will represent the Philippines at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November. Expectations will be high, but so is the trust and admiration she has already earned from the Filipino people.

In an age where the meaning of pageantry continues to evolve, Ahtisa Manalo reminds us why these competitions still matter to many. Not simply because of beauty or tradition, but because of the stories they tell—the human stories of effort, grace, and transformation.

Her journey is a reminder that success does not always come at the first attempt—and sometimes, the third time really is the charm.