Ahtisa Manalo, who represented the Philippines in the recent Miss Universe 2025 pageant, has reportedly declined the opportunity to hold the title of Miss Universe Asia. This decision comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the pageant’s integrity, which many observers have labeled as “rigged.” Manalo, who finished third in the competition, has chosen to focus on her responsibilities as Miss Universe Philippines and her personal business ventures.
According to a post shared by the social media page Pinoy History, Ahtisa Manalo was offered the title of Miss Universe Asia but opted not to accept it. She expressed a desire to prioritize her commitments within the Philippines rather than serve as an ambassador for a pageant that has faced significant criticism. The Miss Universe Organization introduced continental titles in 2024, creating roles for queens representing Asia, Europe & the Middle East, Africa & Oceania, and the Americas.
Following Manalo’s refusal, the title was subsequently offered to Zhao Na from China, who accepted the position. Zhao will join the newly crowned Miss Universe 2025, Fatima Bosch of Mexico, on a world tour. Other continental titleholders include Miss Universe Malta, Julia Cluett, Miss Universe Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia Yacé, and Miss Universe Venezuela, Stephany Abasali. These titleholders are expected to promote the Miss Universe Organization globally through various events and public appearances.
Manalo’s decision has garnered considerable support on social media, with many users applauding her choice. One commenter stated, “She knows her worth. Good decision.” Others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that prioritizing her commitments in the Philippines was a wise move, even if she did not take home the Miss Universe crown. Some users suggested that her refusal to accept the title allows for other contestants to have a chance at recognition.
The controversy surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 pageant intensified as discussions emerged about the judging process. Miss Universe Thailand’s Praveenar Singh, who was initially offered the Miss Universe Asia title before Manalo, declined due to a request for “full transparency” regarding the judges’ votes. Reports indicate that the Miss Universe Organization rejected this request, citing a nondisclosure agreement signed by judges that prevents the discussion of final scoring.
Criticism of the judging process has been rampant, with numerous observers questioning how Fatima Bosch of Mexico and Praveenar Singh of Thailand achieved their respective placements in the finals. Some viewers felt that other contestants, including Manalo and Olivia Yacé, delivered stronger performances during the question-and-answer segments. A user on X expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “MEXICO AND THAILAND WERE THE WEAKEST IN THE TWO Q&A ROUNDS. How did they end up in the top two?”
In a notable turn of events, Omar Harfouch, a judge who resigned from his role shortly after the competition, has claimed to possess evidence indicating that the pageant was compromised. In an interview conducted just before the coronation, he labeled the victory of Miss Mexico as a “fake win,” further fueling speculation about the fairness of the competition.
As the conversation continues regarding the legitimacy of the Miss Universe 2025 results, Ahtisa Manalo’s choice to decline the Miss Universe Asia title serves as a reminder of the ongoing scrutiny and demands for transparency within the pageant world. Her commitment to her responsibilities in the Philippines reflects a broader sentiment among contestants and observers alike, emphasizing the need for accountability in such prestigious events.
