In a world that often boxes women into molds and pageant queens into perfection, Michelle Dee is shattering expectations—gracefully, powerfully, and unapologetically. Crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle represented the country on the global stage in El Salvador, landing in the Top 10 at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant. That alone could have defined her year.
But 2023 became something far more personal—and ultimately, transformational. “2023 was my most authentic year,” Michelle shared in an exclusive interview with Metro.Style .
“Every year after that has just been a deeper version of that authenticity. Coming out as bisexual was a big step. It was a layer of myself I hadn’t shared with the world—but it’s a very real part of who I am.
” Letting go of fear—and the need for approval—became her quiet revolution. From the very beginning, Michelle never shied away from forging her own path. As the daughter of Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez, many expected her to follow the traditional playbook of pageant royalty.
But Michelle was intent on writing her own story—short hair, sharp mind, bold choices and all. “Competing in Miss Universe the way I did—being the complete opposite of the expected prototype—was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken,” she admitted. “I was the most doubted candidate.
But it takes a certain kind of person to go against the grain and still stand tall with dignity. And I did.” The reward? Not just a place.
