Joanne Thornley withdrew from the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 pageant. Image: Facebook/Miss Universe Philippines – Angeles City
Another Miss Universe Philippines 2024 delegate has bowed out of the race early in the competition, Joanne Thornley who was appointed as Angeles City’s representative in the fifth edition of the annual national pageant.
Gerry Diaz, head of the Aces and Queens pageant camp that trained the Kapampangan lass, shared on social media the statement announcing Thornley’s official withdrawal from the 2024 pageant, along with his photos with the erstwhile aspirant.
“With a heavy heart, The Miss Universe Philippines Angeles City announces the decision of Joanne Thornley to withdraw from the Miss Universe Philippines pageant. Joanne has faced health challenges which prevented her from attending several activities,” the organizer said in a statement.
Although the city organizer declined to disclose the specific medical condition that Thornley is experiencing, it said, “her health concerns required her to prioritize her well-being above all else.”
Thornley is the second delegate of the 2024 Miss Universe Philippines pageant to withdraw from the competition.
Kananga’s Natasha Jung announced her withdrawal from the contest after the presentation of the delegates last month.
The provincial organizer had since replaced her with Phoebe Arrianna Torita, who was already included in the photo and video releases made by the national organization.
The Miss Universe Philippines Angeles City organization, meanwhile, did not say if another representative will take over from Thornley.
The statement, meanwhile, expressed the local organizer’s appreciation to the national organization, the sponsors, and everyone who took part in Thornley’s truncated journey.
“Your dedication to empowering women is truly commendable. Please continue to extend your support and encouragement to the remaining contestants as they embark on this remarkable journey,” the Miss Universe Philippines Angeles City organization added in its statement.
Thornley’s withdrawal brings the roster of Miss Universe Philippines delegates down to 54. The pageant will crown the candidate who will succeed Michelle Marquez Dee, who finished in the Top 10 of the 72nd Miss Universe pageant held in El Salvador last year.
The 2024 Miss Universe Philippines winner will try to capture the country’s fifth victory in the global tilt, at the 73rd edition in Mexico later this year.