Stacey Gabriel admits being 'heartbroken' after MUPH's first runner-up finish
Miss Universe Philippines 2024 first runner-up Stacey Gabriel became emotional following the recent pageant.
On her Instagram, Stacey honored her stint by highlighting how her mother played a part in winning the crown. The clip features the beauty queen in tears, hugging her mother closely, seemingly right after the event ended.
"I stepped into this journey with the promise of honoring the women who came before me – particularly my mother, who, at 20 years old and against all odds, sacrificed her own dreams so she could raise me to reach mine," the 26-year-old beauty began.
"All my life, I have stood on her shoulders as she lifts me to new heights," she added.
According to Stacey, there's nothing wrong with being "heartbroken" about her national tilt result as long as she will carry out her duties purposefully.
"That morning, we held each other in prayer, knowing that the battle is not ours, but the battle belongs to the Lord. I am grateful beyond measure to be your 1st Runner-Up and will carry out my duties to His purpose, but I also know that it's okay to be heartbroken over the shared dream that was within reach, but simply not for me last night," Stacey said.
She also expressed her support for the newly crowned Miss Universe 2024, Chelsea Manalo.
"It was, instead, meant for a beautiful woman who will carry the stories of all 53 incredible delegates with her to Mexico. I pray for your success, Chelsea," she said.
Stacey ended with a sweet message to her mother, "Thank you, mama, for being my whole Universe. Up and up… onto the next calling."
Meanwhile, Stacey, who was a Binibining Pilipinas 2022 second runner-up, posted a photo of herself hugging Chelsea, a day after being announced as this year's MUPH first runner-up.
Queens supporting each other
In the post, fellow Pinay beauty queens poured their love and support for Stacey.
"Your greatness goes far beyond any crown, Stace. You were truly extraordinary!!" Miss International 2023 Third runner-up Nicole Borromeo wrote in the comment section.
"You did so well my love!" MJ Lastimosa said.
"We love you Stacey. Sobrang proud ng kalawakan" Ayn Bernos chided.
"You made the whole country so proud Stacey! You were absolutely captivating every single moment while you were standing on that stage. We love you so much and appreciate all the dedication and heart you put into this competition. This is only just the beginning," 2023 Reina Hispanoamericana 2nd runner-up Michelle Arceo penned.
Filipino-American beauty queen Chelsea Manalo, who represented Bulacan, emerged as the winner of this year's competition. She was followed by Cainta's Stacey (1st runner-up), Quezon Province's Ahtisa Manalo (2nd runner-up), Baguio's Tarah Mae Valencia (3rd runner-up), and Taguig's Christi McGarry (4th runner-up).
The coronation night took place on Wednesday, May 22, at the SM Mall of Asia Arean in Pasay City.
Moreover, four more queens were named after the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 crowning moment.
Ahtisa was also crowned Miss Cosmo Philippines, while Tarah won Miss Supranational Philippines.
Alexie Brooks of Iloilo was announced as the Miss Eco International Philippines titleholder, while the Miss Charm Philippines crown was given to Cyrille Payumo of Pampanga. They both finished in the Top 10 of the local pageant.