Why Michelle Dee Says “Filipinas” On Miss Universe Introduction

“Michelle Marquez Dee, Filipinas!”

As a confident Michelle Dee steps onto the Miss Universe stage, the El Salvador crowd roars with cheers and adoration. But why does she say “Filipinas” instead of “Philippines,” the official name of her home country?

The answer lies in the rich cultural history and identity of the Philippines. Filipinas is the Spanish translation of the Philippines, adopted during Spain’s colonization of the archipelago in the 16th century. The Philippines was named after King Philip II of Spain, and thus, the name Filipinas was used to refer to the country.

According to Miss Universe Michelle Dee, using “Filipinas” is a way of honoring the host country’s language and heritage. The Philippines has a long history of colonization, including Spanish, American, and Japanese influences that have shaped its culture and traditions.

“Day 1 pa lang, actually even before arriving in El Salvador, I knew I wanted to say ‘Filipinas.”

Michelle Dee’s Spanish Roots

On the other hand, Michelle Dee has mentioned that she has Spanish roots from her mother, Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez, which adds a personal connection to the term “Filipinas.” It represents her mixed heritage and a nod to the country’s diverse population.

“Of course, I’m not fluent in Spanish but I do have Spanish heritage. I am a Marquez. So, gratefully, a lot of our languages, a lot of our words have a lot of similarities with the Spanish language.” — Michelle Marquez Dee on saying Filipinas

Moreover, Michelle Dee has used “Filipinas” in her recent X posts to show her appreciation and pride for her country’s diverse heritage.

“But it was after the first time I said it, a lot of the Latinas said, ‘Oh, I love that you said Filipinas, Filipinas, Filipinas.’

But why does Michelle Dee choose to use this version of her country’s name instead of the more commonly used Philippines?

For one, it highlights the long-standing influence of Spanish culture in the Philippines. The Spanish colonization brought about significant changes in the country’s language, religion, and customs, which are still evident today. By saying “Filipinas,” Michelle Dee pays homage to this cultural heritage and represents the strong connection between Spain and the Philippines.

Diverse And Multicultural Identity

Moreover, using “Filipinas” also reflects the country’s diverse and multicultural identity. The Philippines is a melting pot of different cultures, including Spanish, Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences. Michelle Dee acknowledges and celebrates this diversity by using the Spanish translation of the country’s name.

Filipino History And Resilience

It also serves as a reminder of the Philippines’ history and resilience. The country has been through multiple colonizations and occupations throughout its history but has managed to retain its unique identity and culture. By saying “Filipinas,” Michelle Dee showcases the country’s rich and complex history, which adds depth and significance to her introduction on the Miss Universe stage.

Connecting With The Filipino And Spanish Audience

Lastly, using “Filipinas” connects Michelle Dee with her fellow Filipinos and the larger Filipino community worldwide. It is a unifying term that brings together all Filipinos, regardless of their background or location, under one banner. By using this term, Michelle Dee represents her country and connects with Spanish-speaking Filipinos and those who identify strongly with the country’s Spanish heritage.

Now that you know why Michelle Dee says “Filipinas” in the Miss Universe 2023 introduction, it’s clear that it holds much more significance than just a simple letter change. It represents the country’s history, diversity, and resilience, making it a powerful choice for her introduction on the global stage. So let us all join in and proudly say, “Michelle Marquez Dee, Filipinas!”

Let us continue to embrace and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our beloved nation, the Philippines. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! #forDEEuniverse #bayanihan #MMD4MissUniverse