Ahtisa Manalo, who represented the Philippines at Miss Universe 2025 and finished as third runner-up and Miss Universe Asia, has announced that she is declining the continental title.
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Ahtisa Manalo, who represented the Philippines at Miss Universe 2025. Photo from Manalo’s Instagram |
According to The Manila Times28-year-old Manalo chose to focus on honoring her existing commitments and duties as Miss Universe 2025 third runner-up.
Addressing fans’ disappointment over her placement, Manalo emphasized the importance of acceptance.
“Whatever the result is, we have to accept it. That’s what the organization announced,” she said.
This year’s Miss Universe concluded on Nov. 21 in Bangkok, with Mexico’s Fatima Bosch crowned the winner. Thailand, Venezuela, and Ivory Coast placed first, second, and fourth runners-up, respectively.
The pageant’s outcome has faced public scrutiny, with some audience members questioning whether Bosch deserved the crown. In addition, contestants from Estonia and Ivory Coast later announced their decisions to relinquish their titles.
PhilStar reported that Manalo’s mother is of Filipino-Spanish descent, while her biological father, whom she has yet to meet, is half Swedish and half Finnish. The beauty queen previously represented the Philippines at Miss International 2018, where she finished as first runner-up.
