Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup shared words of advice for Ahtisa Manalo as she prepares to represent the country in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant.
During Ahtisa's send-off event, as seen in a video posted by The Qrown Philippines on YouTube, Shamcey reminded her not to be overwhelmed by expectations and public pressure.
"Huwag ka lang masyadong ma-pressure. I know a lot of fans love you, and because we love you, they will really try to push you. But I hope you take it positively. Not every girl will have that same kind of support," she said.
Shamcey also emphasized that Ahtisa should remain true to herself when making decisions during the competition.
"I always say this: it's your journey. Do what you think is good for you. Nobody else can say, 'Ganito dapat.' It should be your decision. This is once in a lifetime so I hope you make the right decisions, and you stick with it no matter how many people will say don't do this. Kung ano ang nasa puso mo, gawin mo," she said.
The former Miss Universe Philippines National Director believes that destiny also plays a role in winning the crown.
"I believe that you joining again after losing last year and fighting for your heart's desire and now you are our Miss Universe Phiippines — I do believe that there's destiny. The destiny awaits you. You just have to be ready to grab it, kumbaga. So you do what you can do, the other half, you leave it to fate," she said.
She added: "I'll be praying for you. I'll be there cheering for you because feeling ko, Thailand, alam mo na, our lucky charm and it might be you, Ahtisa. So I am really, really happy that you waited. I am really, really happy that you tried again."
The Miss Universe pageant is set to happen in November in Thailand.