After announcing Michelle Dee as the Best in National Costume winner, Miss Universe faced heavy criticism
MISS UNIVERSE – The international pageant received significant backlash after declaring Michelle Dee from the Philippines as the Best in National Costume winner.
Five days after the grand coronation of Miss Universe 2023, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) announced Michelle Dee as the winner of Best in National Costume. The 72nd Miss Universe took place in El Salvador last November 18, with the showcasing of the candidates’ National Costume happening on November 17, declaring Michelle Dee as the winner.
This marks Michelle’s fourth award at Miss Universe 2023. She had previously won the Voice for Change Gold Award, Fan Vote winner, and Spirit of the Carnival Award. Despite these accolades, Michelle only made it to the Top 10 in Miss Universe 2023. The title of Miss Universe 2023 was won by Nicaragua’s contestant, Sheynnis Palacios. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Anntonia Porsild secured the first runner-up position, and Australia’s Moraya Wilson claimed the second runner-up spot.
However, rather than being delighted, many of Michelle’s fans grew more annoyed with Miss Universe. According to a prominent doctor-vlogger, “If the Best in National Costume was announced before the top 5, it would have created a bigger expectation that MMD will be in top 5. Was it purposely hidden? Is it again a human error? We need answers.”
The “human error” mentioned refers to the Miss Universe El Salvador Instagram account’s incorrect post before announcing the Top 5, where Michelle was included in their list. The Miss Universe Instagram account also faced criticism for this.
A netizen said, “The most awarded candidate in the history of Miss Universe and yet never get into TOP 5! #WMMMO #StayClassy and #Humble.” #WMMMO means “walang mag-mu-move on” or “no one will move on.” Many exclaimed, “Pampalubag-loob?” or “Consolation prize?”
Michelle did not immediately react as she was still on a plane heading back to the Philippines. But she managed to post on her Instagram Broadcast Channel a reaction when her plane received a signal.
She simply said, “Best in National Costume?! [face screaming in fear emoji].” She added: “Truly believe that WE deserve this award (…amongst other things) So much hard work was put into this costume! Incredibly happy for my designer @barassimichael too!”
