LOOK: Ahtisa Manalo stuns in Miss Universe welcoming ceremony
The Philippines' Ahtisa Manalo is luminous at the Miss Universe opening ceremony in Thailand.
The 28-year-old beauty queen radiated confidence on stage, wearing a Mark Bumgarner asymmetrical white gown adorned with pearl earrings and a necklace by Jewelmer.
Being at the forefront of the stage, Manalo stood out even when beside gold, silver, and blue tones of her fellow candidates.
Each contestant introduced themselves during the opening ceremony.
Ahead of Miss Poland, Miss Portugal, and Miss Puerto Rico, the Pinay delegate proudly exclaimed: "Maria Ahtisa Manalo, Philippines!” to the loud applause of spectators.
In a video by Miss Universe Philippines, a spectator can be heard saying "Suay mak" to the Philippine candidate, which is a Thai phrase for "very beautiful."
On Instagram, Ahtisa proudly shared that she did her own hair and makeup during the presentation. "How do you like it?" she captioned, while thanking the assistance of makeup artists Mickey See and Renz Panaligan.
Manalo landed in Thailand on Sunday to compete for a fifth Miss Universe crown for the Philippines.
The opening ceremony went through despite a controversial sashing ceremony, leading to a restricted participation of Miss Universe National Director Nawat Itsaragrisil.
