MANILA, Philippines — Michelle Dee from Makati has been crowned the winner of Miss Universe Philippines 2023, succeeding Celeste Cortesi.
Finishing with positions at the coronation night at the Mall of Asia Arena were Zambales' Christine Opiaza as 1st runner-up and Pampanga's Angelique Manto as 2nd-runner up.
Baguio's Krishnah Marie Gravidez won Best in Swimsuit while Dee won Best in Evening Gown — Dee had won the same award in last year's pageant, where she finished Miss Universe Philippines Tourism 2022.
Eastern Samar's Airissh Ramos was the winner of the Best National Costume competition as she also received the Tingog ng Filipina (Visayas) Award; following her in runner-up positions were Benguet's Joemay-an Leo and Southern Leyte's Kimberly Escartin, respectively.
Rounding up the Best National Costume competition winners were Gravidez with the Tingog ng Filipina (Luzon) award and Agusan del Norte's Jannarie Zarzoso with the Mindanao counterpart.
Other major awards went to Zarzoso (Glam Challenge Winner, Face of Social Media), Manto (Runway Challenge Winner), Bohol's Pauline Amelinckx (Swimsuit Challenge Winner), , Capiz's Shayne Glenmae Maquiran (Miss Friendship), and Princess Anne Marcos (Fan Vote Winner).
Amelinckx was previously given the most special awards at 10: Miss Jojo Bragais, Smilee Apparel, Avana, Soen, Creamsilk Ultimate, Hello Glow, Kemans Body, Enderun, Origee Beauty Drink by Skin Magical, and Titan Universe.
Following Amelinckx was Manto with four special awards, namely Miss Jewelmer, Cavaso, Okada, and Avon.
Dee won three special awards — Miss Aqua Boracay, Pond's, and Zion Philippines — and Zarzoso wrapped up the awards with her Miss Kingston International College special award.
RELATED: Michelle Dee is crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023