Jonas Gaffud writes about Michelle Dee ahead of the pageant: 'I am very proud of how she is'

Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) creative director Jonas Gaffud wrote a heartfelt note for Michelle Dee, who is set to represent the Philippines in the international pageant in El Salvador this Nov. 18.

"This is it!" he began on Instagram.

"I met Michelle when she was in college and she applied to be a model. But as fate would have it, she ended up joining another pageant and management company," he continued.

Jonas said they crossed paths again in 2022 when Michelle joined Miss Universe Philippines, the year where she reached the end of the coronation night but ultimately lost to eventual winner Celeste Cortesi. He also shared that Michelle initially thought twice about joining this year's pageant, but eventually won the title.

"Now here we are going to El Salvador for the Miss Universe pageant," Jonas said. "I know how some Pinoys would bash her but everyday I would see a determined and dedicated Queen. I am very proud of how she is: strong, independent woman. Her aura is QUEEN! And her outfits and gowns are impeccable. So excited for this year’s edition."

Jonas and Michelle are currently in Los Angeles before they head to El Salvador for the Miss Universe pageant.

At the airport, Michelle told ABS-CBN News that "time flew by so fast" since she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023.

"Feels like I just won the national pageant but now that we’re finally here, I see all of my stuff and the luggage dito na tayo sa LA . It just feels closer and closer and realer and realer (sic) but I’m really just excited to enjoy the whole process to grow as well," Michelle told ABS-CBN News. 

The 72nd Miss Universe preliminaries will be on Nov. 15 with the pageant set to broadcast on ABS-CBN platforms including A2Z Channel 11, Kapamilya Channel, Metro Channel, and iWantTFC, on Nov. 19 at 9 a.m. (PH time).