The newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and a history-making Filipina of African descent rode a float, waving to the enthusiastic crowd lining the route from the Capitol Compound to the Malolos-Guiguinto Boundary Arch.
Upon arrival at the Capitol Building, Manalo was warmly welcomed by Governor Fernando and Vice Governor Castro.
In a heartfelt message, Manalo pledged to use her platform to uplift Bulacan. "Your dreams and your time will come," she declared, “and my time will come and will continue when I get to bring home the fifth crown for the Miss Universe.”
"On my way here, it was very emotional. I started here, I started dreaming here in my home town. It is not easy but if you pursue with all your might. Just keep people who are close to you," she said. "Always keep your faith, always believe in yourself.
"If you stay humble and kind, you will be uplifted. You will get a crown. And it is my time… thank you to everyone who was here," she added.
The homecoming parade marks the start of a busy period for Manalo. She will undergo intensive training as she prepares to represent the Philippines on the international stage at the Miss Universe pageant, slated for November in Mexico.
(Photo: Anna Cerezo, ABS-CBN News)