275 quotes found
"I believe that one of the biggest problems that our country faces today is divisiveness in politics, in religion and also in culture. And I believe that it is something that is the same across the world. And that is something I would want to address. I believe that when people can learn to tolerate each other's differences and respect each other's opinions, then we will just be a stronger nation and world."
"Going into any pageant—most especially Miss Universe—changes you. It makes you stronger, braver, and more ready to face whether else comes after the pageant. Going into something like that, it takes a lot of bravery. And you become more confident in who you are. You learn how you can help others around you."
"Homosexuality is not a sin but it is a lie from the devil."
"Money is a tool. It’s neutral. It’s not alive. Something dead cannot make me happy. There was a time I was surrounded with so much money, living the worldly life, what every woman dreams of: traveling the world, living in a big beautiful house, and driving expensive cars, and being surrounded by luxury, the latest it bags, the best branded clothes. But without God... I was not happy. That’s when I discovered that this is not what makes me happy after all."
"To obey God in giving tithes. Tithes is 10 percent of gross income, gross salary. When I first encountered this, I was like “What???” But when you come to think of it, all our money is God’s and He’s just sharing it with us and we’re to be faithful stewards. If we can prove to Him we can be good managers, He will bless us with more."
"Now that I'm a mother, I would probably say, the priority when you're pregnant is to take care of your body. And the rigorous demands of being a beauty queen, of traveling, and meetings here and there might cause a lot of stress for a pregnant woman. So I believe it would be best and wise for her to step down."
"I surrendered myself to God. I read the bible and learned about Jesus more…. Dito na talaga nagsimula ang turnaround ng buhay ko. Nothing in my life was working that time, but the only change was when I surrendered my life to Jesus."
"I’m getting emotional because I feel that it’s really a privilege. I’m turning 50 this year, and God allowed me to live this long so that I can share the beauty and the story of transformation and redemption that he has done in my life and for other people."
"You need people to encourage you, especially when you’re most tempted to give up."
"Living in Boracay is less stressful, You can focus on the more important things in life [like] family and relationships."
"Kahit sikat ako at marami akong pera sa showbiz ,it seemed dark in the limelight. Parang, it seems so empty. And I needed something more meaningful."
"My dream was to really live by the beach, and Boracay is one of the best beaches in the world, it was the best decision we ever made."
"When the Lord gave me the man who I truly deserve to be with for the rest of my life—everything changed for the better."
"A relationship is about companionship and friendship."
"Everything is good. Life can only be better if you are with the man, you truly love."
"Climate change is so compelling that we need to do something about it."
"Knowing God has changed me. I hope it inspires others rather than turns them off."
"I'm always grateful na meron tayong Panginoon na pag sa deepest, lowest situation natin ay nandiyan lang siya para i-comfort tayo, para bigyan tayo ng liwanag, para ituro sa atin yung daan."
"It’s not just the crown that I have to wear. Rather, it’s a symbol that constantly reminds me to do what I can to help improve the environment and be responsible enough to continue my advocacies long after my reign is over."
"Environmental knowledge is something that all of us must share, but most importantly we must teach the youth that this is something that we should instill in them so that in the near future they will be the ones to take care of our mother Earth."
"You know what, sir, in my 22 years of existence, I can say that there's nothing major major problem that I've done in my life because I'm very confident with my family, with the love that they are giving to me. So thank you so much that I'm here. Thank you, thank you so much!"
"One’s future is ahead of you, not behind you."
"My life is a testimony of second chances, forgiveness, and grace."
"Your past does not define you."
"He loves you despite the cracks."
"Don’t let people brand you of someone you’re not. Don’t be afraid to share your story."
"Confidence is not seen on how you carry your dress...but about the inner being, something that is not seen by many."
"Beauty can be a curse. Sometimes, beauty can destroy relationships."
"Every role, I try to do well at it. I do not want to shortchange the viewers. I want to make sure they are satisfied with my performance, whether it’s live or taped. That’s just my goal in my career and in my life as an actor: I make sure my viewers are happy with my performance and always remember every performance that I have."
"I want to be able to share to the young people, men and women… that beauty is something that needs to be understood… that beauty is not used just for selfless reasons… that beauty is a good symbol for this country… that we can grow together and be beautiful as a whole."
"Men, it’s important for you to see that beauty is to be appreciated in the right manner. [It is] not according to how selfish you can be about desiring the woman."
"No, because everything here in this world is temporary."
"My happiest moment is when I’m communicating with God."
"Beauty to me is something that needs to age like wine."
"It takes time to be happy."
"When you are happy, that’s when you become beautiful."
"It is important to know what your beauty really means."
"You cannot linger in anger for so long. I have recovered and moved on with my life."
"We always come back to the job we love the most."
"Accomplishment is not just about money and not fame but it’s also about how you feel that you are doing."
"The heart and good attitude."
"I soared to the highest levels of success … only to find when I got there that I was empty, did not know who I was, and even despaired of life itself. I really did not have a face of my own."
"Feel. Fill everything to the brim. Feel every nice feeling. Even loneliness because it has a purpose. If you must cry, let the tears flow. That’s what they’re there for—when emotions overpower. Cherish things, people, relationships. Nothing lasts forever."
"It's not really the age that defines you as an actor, it's your talent that defines you as an actor, even as a person"
"I'm an actress. There's no insecurity about being second fiddle,"
"What and where I am now is because of show business."
"Artistry is the soul of the city. Without artists painters, singers, actors, dancers, and musicians the city would have no soul."
"I just want good roles. And these don’t come easy."
"I think people should do what suits them and make them feel comfortable. In pageants now where I get to be invited as a judge, the contestants tend to look the same. I swear when I look at them, they walk the same, they wear the same make-up, same hair, similar gowns. If I was a mentor, I would make them different."
"Oh, just the same things I do. I think if he has been in the moon for so long I think when he comes over he wants to change, I guess."
"I used to say that when you enter a contest, you must keep it in your mind that this is not the beginning or the end. This is just a stepping stone, something different. If you win, good. If you lose, okay. You make friends, you enjoy. But it’s more difficult for me to say that now because now, they are already 26 or 27, it’s a life-changing career."
"Keep money not the main conversation. But more than anything, make sure they (children) always share, that they’re always part of a group, and that they don’t feel the need to keep up with anyone."
"That’s the number one thing I always told my daughters.“Who cares?""
"Adjust your appetite. Look at the price from right to left. Adjust your appetite to the price."
"Before, it was different. Your mother wasn’t your friend. She always said no. She would tell you something couldn’t be done. She was your protector, your everything. Your mother wasn’t your friend. She always said no. She would tell you something couldn’t be done. She was your protector, your everything."
"Now, they let kids make mistakes. Like my daughter (Isabelle). She let her children fall. And when they cried, that was fine. Unlike me before, when they fell, I got upset. It was very different."
"I think that’s the new age. That’s just how they are now."
"By being busy, working, having many friends."
"I love the business as it is kasi it has made it very comfortable for me. Everything I have ( because of showbiz). A lot of what I have comes from the business."
"In a way, I’m able to explain why I said this, I said that."
"I always wanted them to speak in their language, whatever they’re comfortable with…"
"Health, wealth, and time to spend it."
"I think people should do what suits them and make them feel comfortable."
"Like I always say, winning or losing is not the beginning or the end. It’s only a step towards your own future, whatever it’s that you do."
"Don’t lend money you can’t afford to lose."
"But if you must help, just give a little as a present and don’t expect it to be returned."
"The natural. So I want to see a more natural person."
"I want to create my own character based on what role they give me."
"Always be thankful that you have luck by your side and people will love you more if you are doing your job right. It's good that you listen and learn,"
"But at the end of the day, it’s really swertehan (luck) …. destiny, yes!"
"Tonelada, Rachelle (November 21, 2025). "Ahtisa Manalo Is Miss Universe 2025 Third Runner-Up—Here's How She Did It". Cosmopolitan Philippines."
"Castelo, Sean III (May 2, 2025). "How Ahtisa Manalo Became Miss Universe Philippines 2025". mega-asia.com."
"https://www.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/pageants-beauty-queens/2025/11/8/ahtisa-manalo-highlights-education-advocacy-in-beyond-the-crown-video-0013"
"Golden Girl Ahtisa Manalo Shares What She Whispered in Thailand Ahead of the Miss Universe Competition. ABS-CBN. Retrieved December 17, 2025."
"I'm happy and content. I did my best. That's all I can do."
"There are more things to life than pageantry,"
"As a public figure, you’ll always get unsolicited advice or opinions and I’m used to it. It’s nothing new. I just hope that when people give these pieces of advice, that they remember to be kind"
"I'm standing as Miss Universe, because I was able to get myself out of any situation, because I was hardworking, I was persistent, and I fight for what I want."
"I want our leaders to have self-knowledge, to understand if they can actually do the job they’re applying for because it's a position of public trust. So they got to be trusted, they got to know what they are doing, and they got to make sure that they have the capabilities to do the job that they area applying for"
"Pageantry became my life’s vessel, fueled by the love and the support of those around me"
"I won't change my legs, because I'm contented with my long-legged."
"It's nice also to laugh at yourselves, lalo na sa mga mistake sa grammar ko (especially my grammar mistakes). So what? I'm not an American!"
"But it doesn't matter. As long as I can express myself and you guys can understand me, it doesn't matter!"
"Pilipino ako (I'm Filipino), and I'm proud to be Pilipino (Filipino). Yehey!"
"Don't judge my brother; he is not a book."
"You can fool me once, you can even fool me twice, you can even fool me thrice. But you can never fool me four."
"“Wala akong pasensya sa mga artistang, number one, bobo tapos mayabang. ‘Di ko kaya ‘yan. Maraming ganyan,”. (I have no patience for the artists who are stupid and then arrogant. I can’t do that. There are many like that.)"
"I do not want to waste my time because life is short."
"There's no such thing as age limit."
"Sit down, breath in, breath out, and pray. Ang pinakamagandang meditation ay praying (The best meditation is praying).”"
"If I could choose to live in any woman’s shoes, it would be Apo Whang-Od. She’s an amazing symbol of cultural preservation. She’s an amazing symbol of ageism. She has been defying boundaries, stereotypes, and that is something that I have tried to inspire everybody around me as well, which is to own your unique story, own your traditions, love where you came from, love who you’re with, who you’re surrounded with. And truly, with that unique story, you can make your country proud. You can show the universe what your country has to offer. In my case, my love for my country can shake the whole universe as well."
"I think one of the worst impressions about me, especially in my career, is I had it easy."
"People don't know how hard I work behind the scenes. People don't know what I went through growing up. People think I'm a nepo baby because I have two prominent parents, but I have been independent since I was a teenager."
"I am just taking it day by day. People don't know I am drowning. [I am] very proud of where I am but I know that there is so much more that I could do."
"Always a 10, we always try to have a better year than the previous year. A lot of growth talaga (of course) and I'm excited to start anew."
"2023 was my most authentic year. Every year after that has just been a deeper version of that authenticity."
"Competing in Miss Universe the way I did—being the complete opposite of the expected prototype—was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken. I was the most doubted candidate. But it takes a certain kind of person to go against the grain and still stand tall with dignity. And I did.”"
"'Reyna’ is about finding the beauty in what others call flaws. It’s reclaiming every insult and doubt thrown at you, and transforming it into confidence."
"I am beautiful, I am kind. With strength and wisdom, I clear my mind. Like the sun, I’ll shine and rise again."
"It’s not about avoiding the bad—it’s about how you rise from it."
"The fact that our voices just keep getting louder. Every year, we take up more space. Even if we’re not fully accepted yet, we show up—and that’s powerful."
"Just by being visible, you give others permission to believe in themselves."
"Your worth is not defined by your wins."
"In life, we lose more than we win. But even in loss, there’s dignity. Even in doubt, there’s beauty."
"I don’t move backward. I walk the talk. And I hope how I live—how I treat people—becomes a ripple effect. That’s how real change happens."
"I am just unapologetically authentic."
"Every challenge became a chance to learn, every collaboration a reminder of the beauty of a shared vision"
"But I firmly believe that the best natural resource that the Philippines is us Filipinos. We are the true heart and soul of the Philippines with the way we are hospitable, with the warm smiles... And we are the reason why the world keeps coming back for more. No matter where the universe takes me, I'll always be proud to call the Philppines my home. And no matter what happens I will always be proud to call myself Pinoy."
"Hard work really pays off, so never stop chasing after ‘that dream,’ okay?"
"Body positivity is about loving yourself and doing what makes you happy,"
"Do what is best for you individually, but never step on anybody’s toes in the process."
"Be careful who you trust."
"Challenging, but incredibly fulfilling, humbling, fruitful in more ways than one."
"It's not done until it's won."
"Winning this year validates not just to me but to every Filipino that with hard work, perseverance and passion, you can achieve anything."
"Thank you for being my rock and for giving me the strength to keep going"
"Life is hard but life is also beautiful and we just have to let others in."
"I hope you know that seeking for help is not a sign of weakness pero (but) it is a sign of ultimate strength because kakayanin natin ang lahat basta alam niyo na hindi kayo nag-iisa at laging may nakahanda na tumulong sa inyo. (because we will be able to carry on as long as you know that you are not alone and there is always somebody ready to help you.)"
"It’s so important now more than ever na we are expressing how important it is to stick together kasi lahat po tayo may pinagdadaanan and hindi po natin alam kung anong pinagdadaanan ng iba. (It's important now more than ever that we are expressing important it is to stick together because all of us are going through something and we do not know what the others are going through.)"
"It felt like forever."
"All you can hope for is that destiny is on your side."
"My mom is one of my biggest inspirations. She is responsible for why I am so strong. She is somebody that I really look up to. She was nothing but proud. She instilled in my mind that I should shine as my own woman, be confident in what I have and what I have to offer."
"I dedicated my whole journey to my mom and my family. I owe it to them that I’m a strong and empowered individual."
"Hard work and dedication can get you anywhere you want in life.”"
"I want to set a great example for people to become empowered and transformational leaders"
"My father always taught me that if you have the means to give back, then you should always give back. I’m so grateful to have such strong pillars in my life, teaching me that the only way to go is to make sure that people around you are safe and taken care of."
"Love and kindness over everything!"
"My ausome brothers taught me how to be understanding and considerate."
"I wouldn’t be what I am today without them. They’re my inspiration, my rock."
"Challenge accepted — always!"
"I’ve stood here many, many times, but today, we’ve gone much farther, we’re much louder and much prouder than ever before."
"Every time I stand here on behalf of the Autism Society of the Philippines, I’m reminded that this is about the community that I serve, this is about my purpose, about my family and the families that have to go through this every single day. They have to be heard, they need to be seen, and they need support now more than ever."
"It’s not just about strength in numbers but strength in purpose, how much farther we can go"
"I’m just looking forward to a brighter, more inclusive future for persons on the autism spectrum."
"Own who you really are and have that self-worth and confidence to control your life."
"Let’s make a conscious effort to make this a better world"
"I was getting positive feedback by just being myself. I never had to identify myself."
"I’m so much more than how I identify myself. I have so much more to offer the world and the universe than how I identify myself."
"I’m attracted to all forms of beauty, all shapes and sizes"
"We did what we could, but destiny has greater things for us! Everything ALWAYS happens for a reason."
"My best advice is to move and live with purpose. Be certain with who you are and why you are here. The crown will always be a symbol of triumph. But win or lose, it’s the lives that you touched that really make a difference."
"This may be the end of my reign but this is the start of a beautiful chapter."
"We have shown the true power of our bayanihan (a Filipino value of working together) spirit. Thank you for seeing the potential in me and rallying behind me when it matters the most. This is our collective success."
"My two siblings on the autism spectrum are my lifelong mission. Being able to give them what they need and be a part of the solution is something that I don't take lightly. I know the kind of life I want them to live, I know what is lacking in the Philippines and the world. It means the world to me to be part of such a positive change for my siblings and everybody on the autism spectrum."
"At Autism Society Philippines, we see every individual on the spectrum as having talent and want them to live fulfilled and empowered lives. That's why I advocate for acceptance, inclusivity, and awareness."
"To always walk life full of gratitude, love, and kindness."
"It’s all about making choices that make you feel good about yourself. Body positivity is about loving yourself and doing what makes you happy."
"Women now have more ways to educate themselves, share their stories, and connect with others than ever before,” she explained. “It’s about harnessing these tools to support each other, grow our careers, and break barriers."
"Come as you are."
"I’m so much more than how I identify myself."
"When somebody takes away your story, then you should take control of that narrative. Turn it around and make it an empowering story."
"At a very young age, she taught me that you know the best thing in life is giving back. When you’re in the position to give back to your community, then you should do that."
"One in every 100 children is born with autism. The community should join forces and work together towards the sustainable development goal of creating opportunities for all."
"It’s just such an amazing platform to do the good that you want to do."
"A lot of the individuals on the spectrum are not given that opportunity because the common perception is that they can’t do it. It’s just about opening those doors and creating those opportunities because, again, this isn’t one of the more popular advocacies to bring on."
"I joined the pageant because this is much greater than myself. This is about the cause I’m fighting, advocating for: autism awareness. That’s my main goal"
"My identity is not what I want to be remembered for."
"Own who you really are and have that self-worth and confidence to control your life. If you try to take that away, I’ll take it back. It boils down to respecting people and spreading love and spreading light."
"Because life’s too short to keep giving myself excuses not to do things I know will fulfill my purpose in life, and service to others and my country has always been one of them."
"I actually work best under pressure. I actually thrive under pressure"
"That’s why I do what I do. My life should also serve as a source of inspiration. You walk the talk. **https://kami.com.ph/entertainment/celebrities/174663-michelle-dee-emosyonal-sa-paglabas-ng-pbb-i-didnt-leave/"
"To me, this gown symbolizes that in this life, it’s not about always being what everyone expects you to be. It’s about having restraint and choosing to stay true to yourself even if it’s so much easier to just follow what everyone wants you to be."
"That in being yourself, you will find people who will believe and see the potential within you. In choosing to be yourself, you will find enough strength and power to achieve anything you set your mind to"
"I would read it and not be affected because I have learned to only listen to people that matter."
"What I fail to do is master the art of getting my thought across in 30 seconds."
"It's always been a life-long advocacy for me to advocate for autism awareness, autism acceptance, and inclusivity"
"Individuals on the autism spectrum possess a unique skill set making them valuable assets in various roles, from technology and data analysis to creative fields as well"
"We stand united with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, and together we can build a more inclusive, empowering, and sustainable world for all."
"Let's be the voice for those who don't have one"
"Let’s be the reason why millions of lives become empowered, and let’s be a true force for good together,"
"With or without the crown, all of you made me feel like a winner Read more: **https://kami.com.ph/entertainment/celebrities/159580-michelle-dee-balik-pinas-na-crown-feel-a-winner/"
"It was definitely not an easy road to get to this point but everything was well worth it!"
"Thank you so much for raising our flag with me"
"The Voice For Change Award was undoubtedly one of the most important and THE MOST personal award to encompass my journey."
"Be more empowered and do not let other people control your life, your narrative."
"This is a lifelong mission for all of us and it’s been a dream knowing that waves whether big or small has been made."
"This has been an incredible year for the books and one heck of a ride all together. I really couldn’t have done this without the unwavering support and hard work of so many,"
"To everyone who stood by me and our vision—thank you. This journey has been ours, a true representation of our resilience and a celebration who we’re proud to be. All love."
"My journey of a thousand steps began with all of you… When the team and I found out that it wasn’t possible to give this gown its own segment… it was a no-brainer for me to wear it (for the last time) during my final walk. Wearing it again felt like I was also giving homage to every story, every drop of sweat, and every ounce of effort that all of you did to create such a transformational force to the universe and I have to reiterate that my success that came after is all of ours to share. ❤️ Thank you for allowing me to represent us with so much pride in our hearts and know that whenever you need me, i’ll be right here waiting for your call."
"My whole theme this year was really embracing who I am and what I have to offer the world. A big part of that was how I identify myself. I was able to connect on a deeper level with a lot of my supporters."
"I know the most important parts of my story."
"I honestly believe that to define what is iconic means creating something timeless. Creating a legacy that is yours alone, that no one can replicate you"
"It starts with honesty. I had to be honest about how I identify myself. I wasn’t trying to please anyone. Nobody told me to come out. Nobody told me how to identify myself."
"I know that there is that pressure to lead by example. But again, like everything that I do, I’ve had such great role models in my life. My grandmother was dedicated all of her life to helping other people. There's my mom who taught me the value of giving back. My father wouldn’t even think twice to help somebody. Those are values that have been instilled into me."
"In my heart, I know that everything I do, I can be accountable for. Everything that I do and everything that I show the world is something that I can be proud of. And because I have those very strong values, I know that whatever I do, I can be a good example. I can set and lead by example."
"Don’t be scared of how you identify yourself. Just know that if you believe you’re a good person, you will be a good person."
"I really want to be remembered as somebody who reached her success."
"To get me to where I am now, it wasn’t easy to get here. It wasn’t easy to subject myself to so much scrutiny. But because I embraced what I had to offer the universe, I went from being the most bashed to one of the most loved and accepted queens."
"It's such a huge responsibility to wear a crown over your head, and its important to remember that you always have to be inspirational and aspirational because there are not just one country, but the whole universe looking at you"
"I have always been a very proud multi-faceted queen. I love the arts, I love being creative. I'm actually a very, very creative and tech nerd, but just trust that you will see more of me"
"Of course, as a queen, I think and actually I believe that one of the best testaments of that is what you do after your reign. Can you continue your advocacy work? Can you continue to walk the talk?"
"As a journalist, my heart aches for my country drowned by corruption, for the lives lost to earthquakes and typhoons. And for journalists like Mariam Abu Daga from Gaza, who died for truth. We are not born in fear, but to hope, to love, and to live in peace. Peace begins when parents teach children with compassion, leaders embody humility, youth find their purpose. And when we live with empathy and kindness, let love be the grandest voice to peace."
"I've learned that grace is stronger than pressure, that humility opens more doors, and that choosing kindness (even when it's hard) will never make you weak. And most of all, I've learned that every dream has its own timing… and when it's finally your season, everything aligns beautifully."
"I think it is not just about perfection. It is about a queen who is willing — willing to grow, willing to learn, and willing to love everyone. Because right now, what is happening around us is so cruel. It is not all about good. And what we need to be to inspire is to be a source of goodness and kindness."
"There’s always a reason why God put us in this situation… it’s up to you how you will use it. So I hope whoever we are in our life, whether we are beauty queens or we are somebody else, there is a reason why we are there."
"Merit and character were enough. No politics, no noise... just a crown that had to be earned. Let's turn our eyes toward pageants and organizations we can truly stand behind — the ones worth supporting and celebrating for their integrity and real empowerment."
"I believe that public health is everyone’s responsibility, and to mandate vaccine inoculation is necessary. If mandating vaccine passports would help us in regulating the rollouts of the vaccine, and mitigate the situation of the pandemic today, then I would agree on mandating the necessary passport of vaccination. Thank you."
"Language can be learned. But the will and determination to contribute something to the organization can not. It has to come from the heart, and it has to be natural. I believe that kindness is a universal language. That if you treat people with tolerance, patience, and love you will understand each other."
"The Hispanic culture is not about language only, it's about love for God, love for country, love for history and culture, and love for family. And as a Filipina with a unique heritage, I have instilled that. I am ready to promote the Hispanic culture, not just in Asia but in the whole world. It is time to celebrate the Hispanic culture. It is meant to be celebrated. Gracias."
"What’s important is that we live our lives with a smile and with a heart, because we are so lucky."
"I felt so proud showing the world that I come from the land known for its people - their laughter, smile, spirit & warmth no matter where in the world they are."
"I know we didn’t get as far as we wanted to here, but I don’t want anyone to be sad, okay? Remember what Coach Tai said, Happy Happy Heartstrong. What’s important is that we live our lives with a smile & with a heart, because we are so lucky."
"When I was a little girl, I never dreamt of becoming a beauty queen. Not because I didn't want to, but because I never believed I could. And so, standing here tonight, I hope I remind you never to limit yourself, because one day, your crazy dreams (like mine) just might come true."
"Women, by their extraordinary talent, their subjugating beauty, their decided courage, and their virile spirit, have often caused changes in the social scene."
"Long before 1905, I had started preaching the gospel of the feminists: ‘What a man can do a woman can do just as well."
"I had no brother. My father was anxious to have a son… Thus my training convinced me that woman suffrage was a great need."
"I shall try to perform my duties in a way that shall please everyone."
"I know I did my best and I have lived up to my purpose. I hope I made you proud again Philippines. [It’s an honor, my beloved Philippines]."
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but you can’t avoid it in our industry. Pag tumaba ka: ‘Ay, ang taba mo, bat ganun?’ Laging andun yung pamimintas. These are things we don’t get to share with other people. They just say, ‘Ay, tumaba siya.’ They don’t know that we’re also going through something."
"I asked myself, how can I best represent the whole Philippines? But against all odds, we won. I am now your queen. I know I only assumed the crown. But I am forever grateful that I was given this chance to represent the Miss Grand International organization."
"Miss Universe is my dream."
"There are still a lot of people who are doing this out of passion, out of love. We are doing this because being in the pageant is our dream, it’s our moms’ dream, or just a dream of special people around us. And for some people to discredit the hard work that we’re putting in this, is unfair."
"Let’s trust our president."
"I was concerned about the other girls joining Miss Universe but that doesn’t mean I am transphobic. I am proud of Angela and I respect her and the community. If I have offended people, I am sorry but it was never my intention."
"My @missuniverse experience has taught me that as a woman, I can be ANYTHING and that I can do EVERYTHING if I put my mind and heart into it."
"This crown just does not belong to me and it [does] not belong just to myself but to everyone here right now. Miss Universe Philippines has always been more than just a competition, it's a celebration of passion, dedication, and the beauty of dreams coming true."
"“Actually, it’s just one girl who’s going to be crowned, but I know in my heart, every one of us, we are alright even without that crown.”"
"I tried out to be a courtside reporter. I tried out two to three times and I didn't get it."
"I was never approved to become the courtside reporter and it definitely broke my heart because I was always at the games, I was really the number one fan of the athletes, and I was not accepted."
"Always remember that what's meant for you will always be yours."
"Better late than never"
"I think it's enough for other people but for me, I think that I did my part in you know, representing short people, representing young people."
"I think after my year in Miss World Philippines, I did my role, I did my best in creating a safer space for women like me."
"I look Asian, I'm an oriental beauty and people you know, mestizo, mestiza, iba 'yung itsura nila (they look different). It's pointless to compare myself to them."
"I was bullied for being Asian"
"Because we're the same age, same 'yung emotions (we experience the same emotions)."
"My perspective in life has broadened. We’re portraying a role and sharing real life stories when filming, which I enjoy because I learn a lot from every role I play."
"I have become more open-minded and sensitive to the realities that happen in our lives."
"My family is very conservative. We are provincials, living a simple life."
"I will never forget what he always told us to give your best all the time, to appreciate and love our work."
"Love and discipline at work. Everybody is dispensable, so appreciate every opportunity and job entrusted to you."
"Always give your best. Know what your audience wants. Don't just think about what you want, feel what will keep your audience entertained and interested."
"Don't choose people. Greet everyone and get along with them. Appreciate your supporters especially because you wouldn't be where you are if they didn't love and support you."
"I’m very much willing to learn more, put in the work needed to be the best actress that I wish and hope to be someday."
"If you want light to come into your life, STAND WHERE IT IS SHINING!' You are braver than you believe and stronger than you think! Kaya natin 'to!"
"'You only live once,' so make it count and live. Live longer and healthier. I have travelled, lived in different countries, joined and won beauty competitions, started acting, and became a host/presenter, but nothing beats a healthy mind and body."
"Before you do or change your diet or drink something, make sure you don’t have bad health history problems! Always ask your doctors!"
"Everybody is both smart and beautiful in their own ways."
"The biggest thing when it comes to well-being is a reason to get up in the morning. You need a sense of purpose, you need to feel needed and that usually comes when you're with a community, when you have people who believe in you."
"I'll go the extra mile to share an experience with somebody. I never want to do something by myself. The best experiences are always shared with someone so that they can bring them home to their loved ones and create that ripple effect."
"“I want to highlight what I did here, and will definitely share this with everyone when I go to Japan. This is actually a flex, for the ambassador to be the first to taste the tea that I made,”"
"“And also to the ambassador, just like what he told me earlier, is to really enjoy my time in Japan when I go there. Because that is something that I also want to do, not just to be there for the competition, but to enjoy every aspect of the Japanese culture,”"
"“As a Filipino, we have strong ties with the Japanese. And I want to bring that friendship that we have with Japan when I go there, and to introduce the similarities of our culture to the other candidates, to share with them how beautiful our friendship is with Japan,”"
"We have already won, because we never lost who we are."
"In every step of this journey, we chose integrity over shortcuts, truth over convenience, and compassion over division. We stood firm in our principles, spoke up for what we believed in, and remained grounded in purpose."
"This was never just about a position, it was about proving that dignity, honesty, and heart still have a place in public service. Thank you for walking with me."
"But more than anything, as a friend, I just want to make [Wurtzbach], my team, proud. But more than them, I just want to make the entire Philippines proud. So for her to believe in me means the universe."
"Having my friends, and my team, and my family, and a lot of the fans come out and show their vocal and very public support, it really meant the world to me to know that I actually had the capabilities to do it, and in a massive support system behind me. So it was definitely encouraging and, definitely, that one last and final push that I needed to announce my joining and candidacy."
"I just want to encourage women to one, always uplift and support one another; to always believe in yourself and never underestimate your capabilities, and know that we are the best in everything that we do and the world would not exist if it weren’t for us, so never forget that!"
"Aging will always be part of one's life, so getting old should not be greeted with fear."
"More than anything else, it should be embraced and celebrated. It should be seen as a phase of culmination of everything beautiful about our individual lives."
"An important part of my Bininining Pilipinas journey is my social cause for our SENIOR CITIZENS."
"Right from the start, I've been actively campaigning for more opportunities and programs for our elderly population."
"As I go around the elderly havens, I've seen the need to lobby for more facilities for them, where they can still be allowed to be productive and to pursue greater things with the help of the GOVERNMENT, their FAMILIES, and respective COMMUNITY."
"“I have always believed in your mission of creating meaningful connections for people with IDD to gain self-confidence and self-esteem,”"
"I spent it building my career (in Dubai), building it from scratch. I started from zero. And when I was finally in a position where I was already comfortable in terms of my lifestyle in Dubai, I was already 26, and I felt that this chapter or this aspect in my life, it’s not yet complete."
"And I feel like if I forgo this pageant career, then I would spend the rest of my life regretting why I didn’t do it. It was such a difficult decision, but it paid off. It paid off eventually and I’m just so glad that I made that decision, I made that risk."
"It serves also as a message to everyone that if your dreams mean more to you than money, than fame, or than anything else, then it’s worth pursuing. It’s worth risking everything. You can see that in the life that I live. And now I am proud to be Bb. Pilipinas Globe. I left my life there, but I’m beginning anew here. And I began it with a bang."
"This journey of mine is a testament really that it’s not too late to pursue your dreams. I was already — I mean I’m already 26 when I took this leap of faith, but it paid off in the end. So just be brave in your decisions in life and fully commit to it and it will pay off."
"Never give up, that’s really my line in my mind always. And a winner is not only the one who wins, but the one who never quits, because if you have that goal in mind, stick to it, and the rest you just have to do your best and God will do the rest."
"Over the years I have taken on countless roles, and I am so grateful to have had you come along with me through them all. And now I feel like I’ve discovered the pinnacle of my purpose, the most important role I will ever take on—motherhood."
"My husband and I are overwhelmed with joy, excitement and delight to announce our 2025 baby."
"What was once anxiety in my heart due to more advanced age, and earnest prayers to naturally conceive despite multiple health conditions and against doctor’s prognosis, has now become the most pleasant surprise of our lives."
"No, I don’t feel any pressure right now! Well, my family’s role for me is so important because there was the wa- they’re, they was the one who’s very (laughs). Oh I’m so sorry. Um, my family, my family. Oh my god. I’m… Ok, I’m so sorry. I, I told you that I’m so confident… Eto, um, wait… (laughs). Um, sorry guys because this was really my first pageant ever because I’m only 17 years old and (laughs) I, I did not expect that I came from, I came from one of the top 10. Hmmm, so… but I said that my family is the most important persons in my life. Thank you. (Her unforgettable answer in Binibining Pilipinas 2008)"
"A lot of individuals would always bring you down. But I say this because I was able to experience this, I was able to battle this by giving myself positive affirmations such as 'I am worthy', 'I am capable', and 'I can do anything through my power and through my own voice.' That's what every individual should do to have their own self-worth."
"For me it would be the first one. The final question asked was who was the influential person, it’s more personal. It’s easier to answer something that’s personal and nothing scripted and about the war and something heavy. So for me, if you answer something that comes from your heart, it’s easy, the flow is very easy. You know like your values, go back to your personal life, your core values, it's easy to answer that."
"In my country, where beauty queens are often applauded for speaking in English, I won my national title using Filipino, our national language. As a cultural torchbearer, I seek to lead the path in forging cross-cultural understanding among my sisters as your next Miss Supranational ambassadress."
"“As simple as providing spaces like parks and playgrounds where schools and the community work together, will eventually help these children develop their well-beings. Over time, it became apparent that it is very difficult to achieve and acquire this space because of business modernization. I am still hopeful that the city will help us provide these safe places for the kids to play and meet.”"
"Raine Baljak’s meaningful reign The Freeman, 19 February 2017."
"When something feels off, have it checked. Don't wait. Don't assume it'll go away. Prevention will always be better than cure. Take care of yourselves. Your body speaks—listen to it."
"Writing it has been an incredibly emotional journey for me. Opening parts of my life that were once private, painful, or quietly carried has been both daunting and liberating."
"I believe that plastic is a serious issue that needs to be tackled with a better solution. We may need to stop single use plastic, but we also need to stop single use plastic, but we also need to figure out how to deal with the current plastic waste overload."
"A woman is never just one thing. She is strength and grace, fire and kindness, a dreamer and a fighter. Today, we celebrate every version of us. As a beauty queen, I once stood on stage with a crown. But life had other plans. I faced kidney failure, a battle that tested my spirit and self-worth. Today, I stand before you, celebrating my third year and kidney anniversary, a living testament of resilience, second chances, and the power of a woman who refuses to give up. For too long, the world has tried to define us, but we are limitless, whether we lead, nurture, create, or fight for change. Our power lies in our choices. True empowerment is lifting each other, embracing our differences, and knowing that we are enough. Always. So, let's stand together, break barriers, and own every part of who we are. Because when women rise, the world rises with us."
"As soon as I set foot in Minsk, I felt as if there was a heavy crown on my head. I didn’t know why I felt that way, but that early, I imagined myself going back to the Philippines with the crown on my head."
"I belong to a quite big yet happy family. We are not rich so we help one another to sustain our needs and reach our dreams. I grew up with strict parents. We must follow household rules as much as we can. They also keep on reminding us to dream big, work hard for it without compromising our good values, and consider the community, the environment, and the Bible in all our actions."