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LOOK: Ahtisa Manalo wows in evening gown inspired by Pinctada Maxima shell at the Miss Universe 2025 preliminaries

Published Nov 19, 2025 11:19 pm

Ahtisa Manalo, the Philippines' bet, exuded powerful glamour during the evening gown segment of the recent Miss Universe 2025 preliminary competition.

Once again donning a Mak Tumang masterpiece, Manalo graced the preliminary competition in Bangkok in the Pinctada gown, a midnight blue creation detailed with gold. This gown draws direct inspiration from the Pinctada maxima, the luminous shell that holds the precious South Sea pearl.

"The silhouette glows with sunburst-like rays, a nod to the iconic Miss Universe crown," Tumang said.

Manalo completed her ensemble with stunning Jewelmer jewelry, while her hair, styled in soft, flowy waves, cascaded down her back, swaying gracefully with every step across the stage.

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A post shared by Ma Ahtisa Manalo (@ahtisa)

Earlier that day, Manalo also participated in the National Costume competition, where she wore her Fiestejada costume that was inspired by the different festivals in the Philippines.

The beauty queen from Quezon Province was named the new MUPh queen last May. She is vying for the Philippines' fifth Miss Universe crown.

The 74th Miss Universe competition will see Victoria Theilvig of Denmark crowning her successor on Nov. 21.