LOOK: Ahtisa Manalo pays homage to ancient Visayan culture in Miss Cosmo 2024 national costume round
Ahtisa Manalo paid tribute to the country's Visayan ancient culture at the Miss Cosmo 2024 national costume competition.
The country's bet for the international pageant channelled Lalahon, a protector and a force of destruction.
According to Ahtisa's post, Lalahon is part of the Visayan ancient culture that "governs the harvest, blessing the land with abundance, while her volcanic power reminds us of nature’s duality."
"Lalahon’s story reflects the balance between creation and destruction—forces that shape the Philippines, a land of fertile plains and volcanic landscapes," she wrote, adding that her costume signifies diety's contribution to the country's culture.
"Her tale serves as a reminder to respect our environment, balancing progress with preservation," Ahtisa added.
What makes the 27-year-old queen's costume unique? She has collaborated with young designers, including 16-year-old Kyla and 12-year-old Meira.
"Through this work, I hope to continue providing opportunities for young people to pursue their dreams and develop their talents," she said.
She continued, "Together, we can keep our cultural traditions alive while empowering the next generation to shape a future rooted in both heritage and innovation."
The costume which features a sultry and fiery brown two-piece garment accentuated with a sword and pot, will be showcased on the national costume round of Miss Cosmo 2024 on Thursday, Sept. 19.
On Sept. 13, Miss Cosmo organization announced that Ahtisa won the “First Station” of the People’s Choice Award where she earned a special "Hope Star" boost (x2 voting points) in the Big Bang—the final stage of the voting. She is also entitled to a private photo shoot, a VIP party, 24-hour media team support, and a chance to take over Cosmo’s Instagram page.
"Philippines, rejoice! Your very own Miss Cosmo Philippines has emerged victorious in The First Station of the ‘Cosmo People's Choice' Award! She’s proven her beauty, grace, and intelligence, and her fans have shown her unwavering support,” it wrote in a post.
The pageant's coronation night is on Saturday, Oct. 5 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Ahtisa was chosen to represent the Philippines in the first-ever Miss Cosmo in May after finishing as the second runner-up in Miss Universe Philippines 2024.