Here’s a story that’s bound to spark some debate: Ahtisa Manalo and Nawat Itsaragrisil shared a lighthearted moment on stage, but it’s what they said that’s raising eyebrows. After the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, the Filipina beauty queen and the Miss Universe Thailand national director were caught on camera exchanging laughs and a high-five, but their conversation took an unexpected turn. During her appearance on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, Ahtisa revealed that she complimented Nawat on the pageant’s production, calling it one of the best she’d ever experienced. But here’s where it gets intriguing: when Ahtisa suggested they might collaborate in the future, Nawat jokingly asked if she was considering joining Miss Grand International—a pageant he owns. Her playful response? A firm ‘No,’ followed by laughter. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Nawat subtly recruiting for his pageant, or was it just harmless banter?
Ahtisa, who has previously stated she’s done with pageantry after her Miss Universe journey, made it clear she wasn’t interested. Yet, this interaction has left fans wondering: Could there be more to the story? And this is the part most people miss: Despite Nawat’s past controversies surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, Ahtisa defended him, describing him as kind and proper in their one-on-one interactions. Is this a case of seeing beyond the headlines, or is Ahtisa downplaying the issues?
Let’s not forget the bigger picture: Ahtisa finished as the third runner-up in Miss Universe 2025, with Mexico’s Fatima Bosch taking the crown. But her post-pageant interactions are proving just as captivating. What do you think? Was Nawat’s comment a harmless joke, or something more? And does Ahtisa’s defense of him change your perspective on the controversies? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
