(From left) Rhian Ramos, Janina Manipol, Max Collins, Michelle Dee. Images: Screengrabs from Instagram/@whianwamos
Rhian Ramos was overjoyed after her best friend Michelle Dee was crowned as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 last May 13, saying she “couldn’t be happier” that “destiny” finally came for the latter this time around.
On Instagram, Ramos shared a video showing glimpses of her experience watching the coronation live, accompanied by other members of their clique, Kapuso star Max Collins and content creator Janina Manipol. The video also showed the beauty queen during the evening gown competition, question-and-answer portion, and her winning moment.
“Congratulations @michelledee [white heart emoji] and to your top notch, independent team,” she said in the caption.
While Ramos admitted that she’s sad about the likelihood of seeing a “little less” of Dee, she stated that she couldn’t be happier that “destiny” had finally aligned with her win. The actress has been living with Dee since September 2022, where their house happens to be a few blocks away from Collins’ home.
“It’s been a very busy past few months and an even more hectic past couple of days… and although I know we’ll probably see a little less of each other, I just couldn’t be happier for you knowing that destiny came for you this year,” she said.
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee with Rhian Ramos. Image from Instagram Stories / @whianwamos
“I saw firsthand the sacrifices you’ve made and the countless hours of hard work and self improvement. you’ve grown so much in such a short amount of time,” she further added.
The Kapuso star also shared that she, Manipol, and Collins “prayed” for Dee before the coronation night, saying that Dee being crowned was an “answered prayer.”
“[Collins], [Manipol], and I prayed for you before the show. We prayed with all our hearts that His will for you be done in your life,” she said. “With every step you took and word you spoke, He answered our prayers. We couldn’t be prouder. You really are transformational! The universe ain’t never seen one like you. We love you Deedee! Will always be here for you. we’re family.”
Dee appeared to be emotional with Ramos’ heartfelt message as well, which can be seen in the comments of the latter’s post.
“My wifey. I don’t even know where to start… You were there through thick and thin (even if I was physically gone lol) but I love youuuu and I know I’ll never get tired of saying ‘HONEY I’M HOME,’” she said.
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@whianwamos
Ramos is known to be best friends with the actress-beauty queen for quite some time, becoming “really close” with her during the pandemic.
This is Dee’s second attempt at the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown. On her first try, she was named Miss Universe Philippines 2022 – Tourism. She will represent the country in the global tilt in El Salvador.
Not beauty queen material
Meanwhile, Ramos addressed the question as to why she has never considered participating in beauty pageants, despite possessing the qualities that are highly sought after in the realm of beauty and intelligence competitions.
Many have speculated that Ramos could have been a strong contender in prestigious national pageants such as Miss Universe Philippines and Binibining Pilipinas, given her stunning looks and intellect.
“I have no poise, composure, or emotional control. ‘Pang drama talaga ako,” she said, adding that she never entertained the idea of joining and strutting the stage in beauty contests, even though there were persistent requests for her to do so.
In an Instagram Story caption, the young actress shared her perspective, saying, “If you ever wonder why it never crossed my mind to join any pageant, this is the reason. Thank you, Lord! Your blessings make me want to ugly cry,” Rhian exclaimed. EDV