Miss Universe Philippines 2024 candidate Chelsea Manalo has received backlash following her tourism video for the competition.
In her video, Manalo introduced herself while standing at the development site of the upcoming New Manila International Airport.
“Soon, Bulacan will not just be a gateway to the North, but the strong catch basin of the Philippine economy, the catalyst of business and commerce, trade and industry, especially tourism,” she said.
The beauty queen’s choice to highlight the development site, which led to the relocation of residents from Barangay Taliptip in 2020 as well as discourse over its possible environmental impact, had caused a stir among pageant fans.
Some commenters expressed their dismay over how Manalo’s tourism video showcased the airport and that it should’ve focused on the iconic tourist spots and colorful festivals of the province instead.
As part of the Miss Universe Philippines competition, candidates are given the chance to showcase their cities and provinces as well as their advocacies through a short tourism video.
Alongside Manalo are fifty-two other beauty queens vying for the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crown and the chance to represent the country in the upcoming Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico. The coronation night will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on May 22.