Despite hailing from a family of beauty queens, you'd be surprised to learn that Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee didn't even inform her mom that she was starting her own journey to the crown. Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez only found out in the news!

Although it wasn't exactly her dream growing up, the allure of the pageant stage finally beckoned when Michelle became a judge for Mr. World. The reception of the audience was the spark that lit her determination to become the best beauty queen she can be—after all, she has big shoes to fill. Now setting her sights on Miss Universe, the former Miss World Philippines 2019 sat down with Preview to talk about how she got on this path and what the road ahead is like for her. After hearing what she had to say, it's definitely a must-watch for future queens and pageant enthusiasts alike!

WATCH: Michelle Dee Shares How She Became A Beauty Queen