THE Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo took the spotlight at the 74th Miss Universe national costume competition in Thailand on Wednesday, wearing a vibrant Mak Tumang creation that honored the country’s long tradition of fiestas.
Tumang, who also designed Catriona Gray’s iconic 2018 “lava gown,” built the ensemble around the classic traje de mestiza silhouette, complete with bell sleeves, a flowing saya and a modest pañuelo.
American Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel, whose father is Filipino, hosted the show and introduced Manalo by highlighting the Filipino spirit of celebration.
“Philippines! This country is a nation of fiestas. This costume captures their spirit with every element inspired by the nation’s grandest celebrations. She is the embodiment of celebrations and good vibrations, Philippines!” Gabriel said.
On Instagram, Manalo said the look pays homage to María Clara, describing the national icon as “the symbol of the ideal Filipina: virtuous, modest, and dignified.”
She added that the costume, crafted from hand-embroidered piña woven from pineapple fibers, carries “threads that speak of patience and pride, echoing centuries of tradition passed down through skilled hands.”
The skirt serves as the centerpiece of the look, which Manalo described as “a festival in motion.” It is layered with dyed fabric adorned with individually sewn, hand-cut, die-cut and heat-pressed petals.
The colors and textures draw from three of the country’s most vibrant fiestas: the Giant Lantern Festival of Pampanga, the Pahiyas Festival of Lucban, and the Panagbenga Festival of Baguio.
“The Philippines is a nation of fiestas where every town and barrio bursts with rhythm, color and devotion. With every step, I become the living festival of the Philippines,” Manalo wrote on Instagram.
The national costume show preceded the Miss Universe preliminary competition, scheduled for Nov. 19. The program will run from 7 to 9 p.m. (8 to 10 p.m. in Manila).
Manalo will vie for the Miss Universe crown on Nov. 21 at the Impact Challenger Hall in Nonthaburi.