Beauty queen Ahtisa Manalo withdrew her candidacy for municipal councilor of Candelaria, Quezon, to focus on her bid for the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 title.
Ahtisa announced her decision on Tuesday, Feb. 25, through her mother, Elsie, at a press conference organized by the Suayan-Maliwanag Leaders Manalo political party.
“I am officially withdrawing my candidacy as municipal councilor of Candelaria. This was not an easy decision. I was given an incredible opportunity to represent not just myself but also our beloved town as I compete in Miss Universe Philippines once again,” she said in a statement.
She then apologized to her supporters for the sudden change of plans but emphasized her desire to bring pride to Candelaria in a different way.
Despite stepping away from politics, Manalo vowed to carry the name of Candelaria with her on the national stage.
“I hope I can still count on your support and prayers as I aim to make our town proud on the national stage,” she said.
Ahtisa is making her return to the Miss Universe Philippines stage and is currently representing the province of Quezon.