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Pia Wurtzbach lauds Michelle Dee, urges her to 'be YOU' in upcoming Miss Universe 2023 pageant

By Ratziel San Juan Published May 16, 2023 6:17 pm

Pia Wurtzbach has shared some heartwarming words for Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee.

In light of her recent win, Michelle posted an Instagram photo of her evening gown to commemorate her vision with fashion designer Mark Bumgarner.

Here, Pia commented support for her most recent successor who will represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant.

"YES!! Beautiful! I love how you stayed true to who you are and did not let pageant trends or chiefs dictate how you should be. It stood out perfectly! Please maintain that til Miss Universe! We want to see YOU. Michelle Dee," Pia wrote.

She relayed advice from Miss Universe talent and creatives director Esther Swan about how "too many chiefs ruin the fun."

"Don't let other 'chiefs' dictate how you should represent yourself... And at this point, everyone will act like an expert, even strangers," Pia continued.

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A post shared by MMD (@michelledee)

The Miss Universe 2015 finally reaffirmed to Michelle that the latter is ultimately in control of how she will represent the Philippines.

"It’s YOU Michelle who’s gonna be on that stage. And that's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Bring the Philippines with you yes, but still be YOU," Pia concluded.

Michelle has since thanked Pia for her usual encouragement.

"Thank you for all the advice you’d give me whenever I’d run into you," she replied to Pia separately on Twitter.

Michelle was announced as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 during the May 13 coronation night at Pasay's Mall of Asia Arena. This means she will compete in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant to be held in El Salvador.