Former Miss Universe Philippines titleholder and actress Michelle Marquez Dee expressed her continuous support for the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) as she is set to present her Voice For Change award at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant.

On her Instagram broadcast channel, Michelle shared how important it is for her to continue her advocacy and support for the organization.

“The Voice For Change Award was undoubtedly one of the most important and THE MOST personal award to encompass my journey,” Michelle said.

As it is something special and personal for the former beauty queen, Michelle expressed gratitude to everyone who has supported her continuously.

“As you all know—my brothers and those on the autism spectrum have been a lifeline of purpose and passion for the things that I do—even before my 7 year pageant journey started,” she added.

“But of course, winning would not have been possible without the #bayanihan spirit, which didn't come cheap,” she continued.

Michelle also revealed that, although her reign as the Miss Universe Philippines has already passed on and the international pageant is already gearing up for its new season, she wasn’t able to obtain her award in the said category.

“At present, I'm still waiting for the release of the VFC award and i'm hoping that they do before the next set of winners,” she revealed.

She optimistically ended her message saying, “Definitely excited to learn more about the advocacies the delegates are championing for though. All love.”

READ: Michelle Dee celebrates one-year anniversary as Miss Universe Philippines

Michelle’s message prompted the Miss Universe Philippines organization to release a statement saying that the delay in handing over Michelle’s award was due to “communication process”.

“We are all very excited about Michelle Marquez Dee’s plans next week. Thank you, Queen!” the organization said in the caption.

They added, “MEA CULPA. The delay was caused by the comms process of MUPH and NOT Miss Universe Organization.”

They also said in the released statement: “We are excited that this week Michelle Marquez Dee will go to the Autism Society of the Philippines to present her Voice for Change award. Even after her Miss Universe stint, MMD remains a staunch ally of her advocacy. A sign of her solid commitment to advance her causes. A real Queen, indeed.

“The admin & accounting personnel assigned have resolved which account to deposit the prize to.”

The MUPH organization then sent their gratitude to Michelle, Autism Society of the Philippines, and the international pageant for giving a platform for such advocacies f the beauty queens.

“Thank you, Michelle and ASP, for giving voice to- and a bigger platform-for such a worthy cause. Thank you to the Miss Universe Organization for amplifying the voices of women around the world,” they stated.

“This clearly demonstrates that MUO practices what it preaches on the cause of Women Empowerment.”

Michelle then commented on the organization’s post, saying “Purpose over everything. We’re one step closer to an #AutismOKPhilippines 💚💚 Thank you for the support @themissuniverseph @jonasempire.ph !!”

Michelle represented the Philippines in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant where she ended her journey as a Top 10 finalist. She also bagged awards such as Best National Costume award, the Spirit of Carnival Award, the Miss Universe’s fan vote, and the Voice for Change award.

READ: Michelle Dee bags Best National Costume in Miss Universe

“Michelle Dee passionately advocates for autism acceptance and empowerment,” Miss Universe said as they announced the gold winners of the category.

READ: Michelle Dee ends Miss Universe journey