MUPH 2025 delegate Ahtisa Manalo withdraws candidacy for Quezon municipal councilor
Beauty queen Ahtisa Manalo withdrew her candidacy for municipal councilor of Quezon Province on Feb. 25 to focus on her Miss Universe Philippines 2025 run.
"With a heavy heart, I am officially withdrawing my candidacy as municipal councilor of Candelaria. This was not an easy decision, and I know it might come as a surprise," Manalo said in a statement delivered by her mother Elsie during a press conference held by her family and political party.
Manalo noted she was given an "unexpected but incredible opportunity" to represent Quezon Province anew in this year's Miss Universe Philippines.
The 27-year-old joined the pageant in 2024, finishing second runner-up. The title went to Bulacan's Chelsea Manalo, who was part of the Top 30 in the international competition and was named the inaugural Miss Universe Asia.
"I want to sincerely apologize for this sudden change of plans," Manalo said. "Higit po sa lahat, sa aking mga kababayan sa Candelaria. I am truly sorry if I have caused any disappointment or inconvenience."
Manalo clarified that her decision to quit the local elections was based on her heart and principles.
"I am making this choice because I believe this new opportunity allows me to serve and represent once again our beloved province in a different but meaningful way," she said.
"While it means stepping away from my candidacy, I promise to carry the pride of Candelaria with me as I take on this new journey again," Manalo added. “I hope I can still count on your support and prayers, and I aim to make our town proud on the national stage."
After her Miss Universe Philippines journey, Manalo joined Miss Cosmo 2024, where she finished in the Top 10.
In 2018, she won Miss Binibining Pilipinas International and represented the country in the global competition in Tokyo, where Valenzuela's Mariem Velazco won the crown.
Manalo also has Finnish, Swedish, and Spanish roots.
Outside of beauty pageants, she's an entrepreneur who owns two cafes in Australia, Cafe Noun and Call Me Harris. She also has interests in the yogurt drink shop Koomi, Mediterranean restaurant Oh My Greek, and salad and juice store Zig.
