Michelle Dee weighs in on 'halfies' debate: 'It's not about what's in your blood'

Michelle Dee shared her thoughts on the ongoing online discussion surrounding the role of mixed-race Filipinos, referred to as “halfies,” in the country’s success on the international pageant stage.

On Tuesday’s “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” the Sparkle beauty queen emphasized that success in pageantry should not be reduced to a contestant’s ancestry.

“We've gotten so much success in the international stage by being Filipino. And we should always recognize that it's not just about who we are, it's also the people that are carrying us,” Michelle said.

She also highlighted the role of Filipino supporters in helping representatives succeed abroad.

“I always say na I wouldn't be where I am if not for the support of the Filipino people. Whether I'm full-blooded, whether there are halfies, what should be true is your pride for the country you're representing eh,” she said.

Michelle also noted that the same principle applies beyond pageantry, pointing to other fields such as sports and music, and stressed that attributing international success solely to mixed ancestry overlooks the bigger picture.

“Some of the most celebrated ‘halfies’ abroad still feel the support of being Filipino. I don't think it's right to claim that because of being halfie, dun lang nagkaka-success. I think it's just important for the Filipinos to know that it's not about what's in your blood, it's about what you're proud of. It's about who you're proud to be and the country you're representing,” she said.

The “halfies” conversation gained traction after comments circulating online sparked discussions about whether the Philippines would remain competitive in international pageantry without candidates of mixed ancestry.

Michelle won Miss Universe Philippines in 2023 and finished in the Top 10 of Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador, where she also won several special awards.

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA News