Markus Castro
Michelle Dee: Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Winner
Table of Contents
Michelle Dee made history on May 13, 2023, when she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023. The 28-year-old actress and model represented the City of Makati and beat 37 other contestants to win the coveted title. Dee is the second Filipina beauty queen to win both the Miss World Philippines and Miss Universe Philippines crowns.
Born on May 18, 1994, Michelle Dee is the daughter of former Miss International Melanie Marquez and businessman Derek Dee. She grew up in the Philippines and attended the De La Salle University in Manila, where she studied marketing. Dee started her modeling career in 2017 and has since appeared in numerous fashion shows and magazines. She also made her acting debut in the Philippine television series “Love You Two” in 2019.
Dee’s win has sparked celebrations across the Philippines, with many hailing her as a role model for young women. She will now represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, which will be held in El Salvador later this year. Dee has expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country and has vowed to make the Philippines proud.
Early Life and Education
Michelle Dee was born on April 24, 1995, in Makati, Philippines. She is the daughter of former Miss International Melanie Marquez. Michelle spent her childhood in her family’s ranch in Utah, USA, where she learned to be independent.
She attended De La Salle University, where she obtained a degree in Psychology. Michelle was an active student during her time at De La Salle University, where she participated in various extracurricular activities and clubs.
Michelle’s interest in pageantry began when she became a judge for the Mister World pageant. In an interview with Preview, she mentioned that she never dreamed of becoming a beauty queen until then.
Michelle’s education and background in psychology have helped her become a confident and knowledgeable individual. She has used her platform to raise awareness about mental health and has been vocal about the importance of seeking help when needed.
Pageant Journey
Michelle Dee’s pageant journey towards winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown was filled with bittersweet milestones. She represented Makati City and surpassed over 30 candidates to win the title, making her the official representative of the country in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant.
During the competition, Michelle Dee was named Best in Evening Gown and was also awarded the Miss Friendship award. She also made it to the Top 5 and was named 1st Runner-Up in the Miss World Philippines 2019 pageant.
Michelle Dee’s journey towards the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown was not an easy one. She encountered challenges and obstacles before reaching her dream of becoming a beauty queen. However, she persevered and worked hard to achieve her goal.
On the Grand Coronation Night, Michelle Dee shone in her swimsuit and evening gown, showcasing her beauty, grace, and elegance. She also impressed the judges during the Question-and-Answer Portion, where she revealed that she practiced for about 12 hours before the coronation.
Michelle Dee’s mother, Melanie Marquez, was also a beauty queen and was crowned Miss International 1979. Michelle followed in her mother’s footsteps and made her family proud by winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown.
Aside from winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown, Michelle Dee also holds the titles of Miss World Philippines 2019 – Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas and Miss World Philippines 2019 2nd Princess. She also competed in other pageants such as Miss Charm Philippines 2017 and Miss Supranational Philippines 2018.
Career in Showbiz
Michelle Dee started her showbiz career in 2019 as a host in the lifestyle show, Glow Up. She then ventured into acting and appeared in various TV shows and films. Some of her latest projects include the TV shows I Left My Heart in Sorsogon (2021) and Mga Lihim Ni Urduja (2023).
In 2022, she starred in the GMA Network drama series, Love You Stranger, alongside Alden Richards. Her performance in the show earned her a nomination for Best New TV Actress at the PMPC Star Awards for Television.
Aside from acting, Michelle also has experience in hosting. In 2013, she co-hosted American Idol Season 12 with Jessica Sanchez during the latter’s homecoming concert in the Philippines.
Michelle Dee’s talent and hard work have earned her recognition in the entertainment industry. She was crowned Miss World Philippines 2019 and later on, Miss Universe Philippines 2023. With her impressive track record, it is no surprise that she continues to make a name for herself in the showbiz industry.
Modeling Career
Michelle Dee’s modeling career started when she was just 15 years old. She was discovered by a talent scout while shopping with her mom. Since then, she has been a sought-after model in the Philippines.
Michelle has worked with various brands, including Pond’s, a popular skincare brand. In fact, she was the face of Pond’s in 2017. She has also walked the runway for many fashion shows and has been featured in numerous magazine spreads.
Michelle’s modeling career is not just limited to the Philippines. She has also modeled in other countries, including Thailand and Singapore. Her international exposure has allowed her to meet and work with different people in the industry.
Michelle’s father, Frederick ‘Derek’ Dee, is also a well-known model in the Philippines. Her father’s experience and connections in the industry may have helped Michelle’s rise to fame, but her talent and hard work are what truly set her apart.
Overall, Michelle Dee’s modeling career has been successful, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the industry.
Advocacy Work
Michelle Dee, Miss Universe Philippines 2023, is known for her advocacy work in several areas. She is a strong advocate for Autism Awareness and Mental Health Education. Michelle has been calling her Autism Awareness advocacy her “lifelong mission” since 2019 when she first revealed her two siblings with autism, Mazen Marquez and Adam Lawyer. She has been using her platform to spread awareness about autism and mental health education. Michelle believes that everyone deserves to be understood and accepted for who they are, regardless of their differences.
In addition to her advocacy work for autism awareness and mental health education, Michelle is also passionate about promoting Income Inequality and Filipino Child welfare. She believes that every child deserves access to education, healthcare, and a safe environment to grow up in. Michelle also understands the importance of entrepreneurship essentials in building a strong economy. She has been actively promoting entrepreneurship education and training to help young people start their own businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Michelle’s advocacy work has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she was invited to speak at the Harvard Business School’s Asia Business Conference. She shared her experiences and insights on how to build a successful career while making a positive impact on society. Michelle’s dedication to her advocacy work has inspired many people, and she continues to be a role model for young people in the Philippines and around the world.
Family Background
Michelle Dee was born on April 24, 1995, in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines, to actor and businessman Frederick “Derek” Dee and Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez. She has two siblings, one of whom is Winwyn Marquez, who won the Reina Hispanoamericana title in 2017.
Michelle’s family left the Philippines for the US when she was three years old and spent most of her childhood in their family ranch in Utah, USA. Her upbringing in the ranch taught her to be independent and to work hard for what she wants.
Michelle’s mother, Melanie Marquez, is a well-known personality in the Philippines, having won the Miss International title in 1979. She has also been a successful actress and model in the country. Her sister, Winwyn Marquez, is also a beauty queen and actress who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
Michelle’s family background has played a significant role in shaping her personality and values. Her parents’ success in their respective fields has inspired her to pursue her dreams and work hard to achieve them. She has also been vocal about her advocacy for autism awareness and mental health education, which may have been influenced by her siblings’ diagnosis with autism.
Hosting Gigs
Aside from her successful beauty pageant career, Michelle Dee has also dabbled in hosting gigs. She was a guest co-host in TAPE’s “Eat Bulaga” in June 2023, just a few weeks after winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 title. The actress-beauty queen shared the stage with fellow co-hosts Angelique Manto and Celeste Cortesi, and actor Xian Lim.
Dee’s hosting skills were put to the test as she participated in various segments of the show, including the popular “Juan for All, All for Juan” segment. She also showcased her dancing skills in the “Boom” segment, where she danced to the tune of “Bboom Bboom” by the K-pop girl group Momoland.
Despite being new to the hosting scene, Dee was praised for her natural charm and wit on the show. Her infectious energy and ability to connect with the audience made her a standout co-host, and fans are excited to see more of her on television.
Overall, Michelle Dee’s foray into hosting gigs has been a success so far, and it’s clear that she has a bright future ahead of her in the entertainment industry.
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Reign
Michelle Dee made history on May 14, 2023, when she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. She beat 37 other candidates to win the coveted title. Dee represented Makati City in the pageant and was the second Filipina beauty queen to win both the Miss World Philippines and Miss Universe Philippines crowns.
As the reigning Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Dee is expected to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant. The Miss Universe Pageant is one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the world, and the winner is considered the most beautiful woman in the universe.
Dee is taking over the crown from Zozibini Tunzi, the reigning Miss Universe. Tunzi, who is from South Africa, won the title in 2022. She was the third woman from South Africa to win the crown and the first black woman to do so since Leila Lopes of Angola in 2011.
Throughout her reign, Dee will be expected to attend various events and engage in charity work. She will also be expected to promote the Philippines and its culture to the world.
Dee’s reign as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 is expected to bring a lot of attention to the Philippines, particularly Metro Manila, where the Miss Universe pageant is usually held. The pageant has been held in the Philippines three times, with the most recent being in 2017.
Overall, Dee’s reign as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 is expected to be a memorable one, and she will be a great representative of the Philippines on the world stage.
Other Titles
Aside from being crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee has also won other beauty pageant titles. In 2019, she was crowned Miss World Philippines, where she also won the Miss Multinational Philippines and Miss Resorts World Manila titles.
Moreover, Michelle Dee has also won other titles before joining national beauty pageants. She was crowned Miss Aqua Boracay 2017 and Miss Zion Philippines 2018, where she also won the Miss Zion title. These titles have helped her gain experience and exposure in the pageant world, which eventually led to her success in the national and international pageants.
Michelle Dee’s success in the pageant world is not only because of her beauty but also because of her intelligence and personality. She is known for her confidence, knowledge, and neutral stance on various issues. Her participation in beauty pageants has also allowed her to advocate for causes that are close to her heart, such as mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.
Overall, Michelle Dee’s success in the pageant world is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for empowering women and advocating for important causes.
Tourism Campaigns
As the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee is expected to be a spokesperson for the Department of Tourism and its various tourism campaigns. One of the recent campaigns that she was asked about during the final Q&A was the Department of Tourism’s new branding campaign, “We give the world our best.”
The campaign aims to promote the Philippines as a top destination for tourists by highlighting the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. It also emphasizes the Filipino people’s dedication to providing the best possible experience for visitors to the country.
Michelle Dee’s response to the question was well received by the audience and judges alike. She talked about how the best thing about the Philippines is its people and their willingness to share their culture and hospitality with visitors from around the world.
As Miss Universe Philippines Tourism 2022, Michelle Dee has already been involved in various tourism campaigns, including promoting Bohol as a top tourist destination in the country. She was also part of a tourism campaign for Agusan Del Norte, where she worked with fellow beauty queens Christine Opiaza and Jannarie Zarzoso to showcase the province’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
In addition to her work promoting specific destinations, Michelle Dee has also been an advocate for sustainable tourism and responsible travel. She has spoken out about the importance of preserving the environment and supporting local communities when traveling.
Other Miss Universe Philippines winners have also been involved in tourism campaigns. Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Pauline Amelinckx has been promoting Baguio City as a top destination for tourists, while Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo has been working to promote various tourism initiatives in her home province of Iloilo.
Overall, as Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee will have the opportunity to use her platform to promote the beauty and diversity of the Philippines to the world.
International Recognition
Michelle Dee’s win at the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 pageant has put her in the international spotlight. She will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, which will be held in El Salvador later this year. This is a significant achievement for Dee, who has been working hard to establish herself as a model and actress.
Dee’s international recognition has also led to opportunities in the United States. She has been featured in several international publications, including Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, which has helped her gain a wider audience. Her success has also caught the attention of Nam Woo-Hyun, a Korean singer and actor, who has expressed his admiration for her.
As a Filipino-American, Dee is proud to represent her country on the international stage. Her success is a testament to the talent and beauty of the Filipino people. Dee’s win has also brought attention to the United States’ large Filipino community, which has a rich cultural heritage and has made significant contributions to American society.
Dee’s international recognition is a significant milestone in her career. She has worked hard to establish herself as a model and actress, and her success is a testament to her talent and dedication. Her win at the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 pageant is a stepping stone to greater success, and she is poised to make a significant impact on the international stage.
Legacy and Influence
Michelle Dee’s victory as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 has cemented her place in the history of Philippine pageantry. Her win has inspired many Filipinos, particularly those from her home province of Pampanga, to pursue their dreams and to believe that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
As an advocate for the protection and preservation of natural resources, Dee has used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation. She has also been vocal about the need for the government to take a more active role in addressing issues such as climate change and pollution, particularly in areas like Zambales where mining has caused significant damage to the environment.
Dee’s victory has also highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the pageant world. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she has shown that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and orientations. Her courage and authenticity have earned her the respect and admiration of many Filipinos, who see her as a role model and a beacon of hope.
Despite facing technical issues during the competition, Dee remained composed and focused, impressing the judges with her grace, intelligence, and poise. Her win is a testament to her hard work and dedication, as well as the support of her family, friends, and fans.
R’Bonney Gabriel, one of the judges, praised Dee for her confidence and beauty, saying that she embodied the qualities of a true Filipina. He also noted that her advocacy for the environment and her commitment to making a difference in the world set her apart from the other contestants.
In conclusion, Michelle Dee’s legacy and influence extend far beyond the pageant world. Her win has inspired Filipinos to believe in themselves and to work towards a better future for themselves and their country. She has shown that beauty is not just about physical appearance, but also about inner strength, intelligence, and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Michelle Dee’s background and experience in pageantry?
Michelle Dee is a Filipino actor, model, and beauty queen who was born in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines. She is the daughter of actor and businessman Frederick “Derek” Dee and Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez. Michelle stands at 5’10” tall. She has won both Miss World Philippines and Miss Universe Philippines crowns, making her the second Filipina beauty queen to achieve this feat.
What are Michelle Dee’s chances of winning Miss Universe 2023?
Michelle Dee has a strong chance of winning Miss Universe 2023. She has already proven her pageant skills by winning both Miss World Philippines and Miss Universe Philippines crowns. Additionally, she has a strong advocacy for autism awareness and mental health education, which could help her stand out in the competition.
What sets Michelle Dee apart from other Miss Universe Philippines 2023 candidates?
Michelle Dee’s background in modeling and acting, as well as her experience in pageantry, sets her apart from other Miss Universe Philippines 2023 candidates. She is also known for her advocacy for autism awareness and mental health education, which could help her stand out in the competition.
Can you tell us about Michelle Dee’s advocacy and platform?
Michelle Dee is an advocate for autism awareness and mental health education. She has worked with organizations such as the Autism Society Philippines and the Philippine Mental Health Association to raise awareness and promote education on these issues.
What are Michelle Dee’s future plans after Miss Universe Philippines 2023?
Michelle Dee has not yet announced her future plans after Miss Universe Philippines 2023. However, given her background in modeling and acting, it is possible that she will continue to pursue a career in these fields.
Who are the judges for Miss Universe Philippines 2023 and what are they looking for in a winner?
The judges for Miss Universe Philippines 2023 have not yet been announced. However, in general, judges are looking for a candidate who embodies the qualities of a Miss Universe, including intelligence, poise, and beauty. They are also looking for a candidate who has a strong advocacy and can represent their country well on the international stage.
