Michelle Dee honored for her work in autism awareness

Photo: Michelle Dee/IG

Michelle Dee was honored with a leadership award for her advocacy in autism awareness.

At Autism Society Philippines’ event on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Michelle was awarded with the Hans T. Sy Leadership Award. The event was attended by 23,000 people and Michelle’s mom, Melanie Marquez, was also present.

“Thank you @autismphilippines for not only for trusting me as your goodwill ambassador all of these years but for also awarding me with the Hans T. Sy Leadership award,” the beauty queen said on Instagram.

“I’ve received a number of recognitions but this one hits different because all of you are at the core of my success,” she added.

The reigning Miss Universe Philippines also expressed her happiness at the event.

“After everything we’ve been through all these years, we are back at the @moaarena and stronger than ever!” Michelle said.

“I can’t wait for the rest of the world to keep recognizing the talents that every individual on the spectrum brings to the table. It was more than just a gathering— it was a showcase of strength in numbers connected by our shared vision of creating an #AutismOKPH,” she added. “Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone that came and see you all at the arena next year. All love.”

Michelle competed in Miss Universe with an advocacy for autism awareness. Her winning national costume has a special detail that includes her two siblings on the autism spectrum.

Michelle, a top 10 finalist in Miss Universe who won several special awards, is set to crown her successor at the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 pageant on May 22.

She recently trended for her appearance on “It’s Showtime,” where she became a searcher on EXpecially For You and matched with Cebu-based lawyer, Oliver Moeller.

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News

This article Michelle Dee honored for her work in autism awareness was originally published in GMA News Online.