Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee was warmly greeted by fans during her ceremonial “homecoming” parade held at the SM MOA Complex, accenting another gown inspired by the iconic tattoo of Apo Whang-od.
Dee arrived in the Philippines on November 25, still fulfilling her duties as Miss Universe Philippines 2023.
Aside from several TV guest appearances, she paid a courtesy call at the House of Representatives and the Department of Tourism, where she was recognized as the country’s newest tourism ambassador.
“Full of gratitude after recently being recognized at the House of Representatives for my efforts to represent the #FILIPINAS with the best of my abilities, for bringing home the most special wards any Miss Universe candidate has ever won, and for being chosen as the newest tourism ambassador for the DOT as well, Maraming Salamat! "Dee wrote on her Instagram account.
Dee wore a white gown accented with delicately crafted sleeves inspired once again by the tattoo design of Apo Whang-od, the iconic Filipina tattoo artist from the Kalinga ethnic group, made by renowned designer Mark Bumgarner.
“For my dear MMD’s homecoming parade, a custom @markbumgarner design in reference to her Miss Universe Whang od evening gown, this time in white. The asymmetrical design gives it an edgy and modern look, yet remaining to my aesthetics; clean, structured, romantic. The traditional Kalinga tattoo design was integrated in a more subtle way, as a nod to the legendary icon, Whang od, and as a representation of our indigenous peoples; a merging of tradition and modern elegance,” Mark Bumgarner wrote on his Instagram account.
The Miss Universe Philippines Organization also extended their gratitude for the warm welcome they expressed to Michelle Dee as she raised the rainbow flag of the LGBTQIA+ community along with the Philippine flag.
#MichelleDee #ApoWhangOd #MissUniverse #FILIPINAS #LGBT #OpinYon #WeTakeAStand