Chelsea Manalo, Miss Universe Asia 2024, is overjoyed to receive a special tribute from renowned Filipino shoemaker Jojo Bragais. Known for creating shoes that honor iconic Filipino beauty queens, Bragais designed a unique pair in Manalo’s honor. The design features a sleek high heel with a platform and three secure straps, offered in glossy silver with a nude option.
Manalo, who received the “Miss Jojo Bragais” award during the 2024 Miss Universe Philippines pageant, expressed her excitement upon seeing the shoes. In a heartfelt message, she shared, “Thank you, Jojo Bragais, and the whole team. Kinikilig ako (I’m so giddy). Whoever will walk in this pair of heels, it’s not just a heel, it’s a story, your confidence, your dreams that you have to walk into.”
Bragais, who had previously worked with Manalo in 2021, saw a special connection with the beauty queen. “Chelsea is an underdog, came from a very simple family, who lacked resources and support. But despite all that, she still triumphed,” he said. He described the tribute as a heartfelt masterpiece, marking his return to creating designs that deeply reflect both his artistry and the spirit of the queens he honors.
This tribute comes after Manalo’s remarkable victory as the first black woman to represent the Philippines in Miss Universe, where she went on to place in the Top 30 and was crowned Miss Universe Asia.
