Here’s a bold statement: the world of pageantry is never short on drama, and this latest interaction between Ahtisa Manalo and Nawat Itsaragrisil is no exception. But here's where it gets controversial... Did Nawat subtly hint at Ahtisa joining Miss Grand International, despite her public declaration of stepping away from pageantry? Let’s dive in.
Following the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, Ahtisa Manalo shared a lighthearted yet intriguing exchange with Nawat Itsaragrisil, the Miss Universe Thailand national director and owner of Miss Grand International. During an episode of Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, Ahtisa recounted the viral moment captured on social media, where the two were seen laughing and high-fiving on stage. And this is the part most people miss... It wasn’t just a casual interaction—it was loaded with playful banter and a hint of future possibilities.
Ahtisa praised Nawat’s work, calling the Miss Universe 2025 stage one of the best she’d ever experienced. She even congratulated him and jokingly floated the idea of collaborating in the future. Nawat’s response? A cheeky suggestion: “Miss Grand?” Ahtisa’s quick and laughing refusal—“Ay hindi po!”—left no doubt about her stance. But the question lingers: was Nawat testing the waters, or was it just friendly ribbing?
Here’s the kicker: Ahtisa has publicly stated she’s done with pageantry after her Miss Universe journey, which ended with her placing as the third runner-up. Yet, Nawat’s playful nudge raises eyebrows. Could this be a subtle attempt to keep the door open for her return, or is it simply a testament to their friendly rapport? It’s a fine line, and opinions are sure to vary.
Adding another layer to this story, Nawat has been at the center of controversies surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 pageant. Host Boy Abunda even described him as “maligalig” (vexing), but Ahtisa offered a different perspective. “Of all my one-on-one interactions with him, he’s a kind person. He’s very proper,” she said. But here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Is Nawat’s public persona at odds with his private demeanor, or are we seeing a calculated move to keep Ahtisa—and the public—guessing?
This interaction isn’t just about a quick laugh on stage; it’s a glimpse into the complex dynamics of the pageantry world. Ahtisa’s refusal to join Miss Grand International seems firm, but Nawat’s playful suggestion leaves room for speculation. What do you think? Is this a harmless joke, or a strategic nudge? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation that’s far from over.
