A proud go-getter, risk-taker, and adrenaline junkie– our Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee of Makati City dominated the famous pageant’s coronation night in MOA Arena last May 13. With her looks that perfectly embody a daring class and her intelligence that goes beyond what meets the eye, a deserving victory landed in her name and she is ready to do whatever it takes to bring home the Miss Universe crown to the Philippines again. LVNA’s fine diamond jewelry graced the skin of the beauty queen in a photoshoot done by Dennis Sulit, with hair and makeup by Antonio Papa and Dave Quiambao, and styled by the amazing Kim Sison.
The 28-year-old stunner looks daring and elegant as she strikes fierce poses wearing LVNA’s brilliant diamond earrings, bracelet, and rings. Michelle is a natural beauty, and the way she stands tall is the same as how she holds on to her beliefs and advocacies in life.
“It's always been a life-long advocacy for me to advocate for autism awareness, autism acceptance, and inclusivity… From education to healthcare to governments giving people with disabilities the proper opportunities, kulang pa talaga,” the Mga Lihim ni Urduja actress said in a news magazine show. It is safe to say that Michelle is dedicating her reign to destigmatize the condition of people on a spectrum who are subject to discrimination just like his two brothers.
As she always mentions in her interviews, the main purpose of joining pageants like Miss Universe Philippines is to have a platform to raise awareness about issues that deserve to be highlighted. This is an admirable trait about the titleholder that we must all take to heart.
Behind her strong and intimidating facade that is an epitome of all independent women, an empathetic and kind personality lives that became more apparent during her Miss Universe Philippines 2023 journey. Michelle’s aura emits so much confidence and LVNA is so happy to see her become more at ease to express her most authentic self.
“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,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post about her winning evening gown in the competition. This perfectly reflects Michelle’s excellent character. In the face of naysayers, she will continue to promote kindness by spreading love. LVNA is looking forward to her next pageant journey on the international stage and we are certain that she will make the whole Philippines proud.