MANILA, Philippines — Beauty queen Ahtisa Manalo publicly recalled what she described as her “worst pageant experience” during her time competing with Miss Cosmo in an online interview on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024.
She detailed how the experience affected her both emotionally and professionally.
Manalo said she faced treatment she considered disrespectful and unprofessional from individuals connected to the pageant. She expressed disappointment with how organizers handled candidate concerns and said the experience shaped her current views on pageant management and contestant welfare.
The incident prompted Manalo to reflect on her future in pageantry and how she wished to engage with organizations managing international competitions.
In response, a Miss Cosmo executive issued a public statement on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. The organization said it took Manalo’s claims seriously and maintained that it had followed internal guidelines and protocols during her participation.
The statement emphasized that all candidates were treated fairly and professionally and that the organization aimed to provide a safe and respectful environment for participants. Miss Cosmo said it would review Manalo’s concerns, examine internal records and procedures, and remain open to direct communication with her to clarify any misunderstandings.