Chelsea Fernandez Is Miss Cosmo First Runner-Up, And She Used It As A Platform To Advocate For The Planet

Chelsea Fernandez may have finished as first runner-up at this year's Miss Cosmo in Vietnam, but her advocacy showed that she is just getting started. 

During the question-and-answer portion, Chelsea was asked by judge Olivia Yace of Cote d'Ivoire, fourth runner-up at Miss Universe 2025, which societal mindset about women she would want to change.

"It would be 'women are not leaders,'" Chelsea started.

"That is not true. We women, we have that innate value of leadership. However, sometimes we are not given opportunities, spaces, and chances. And as Miss Cosmo, who ignites change, I would like to empower every woman to immerse yourselves in activities that can enrich your skills, and in order for us to move forward," she added.

As the crowd erupted in applause for her message and delivery, Chelsea ended on a powerful note: "Because we women, we can stand on our own. And women can also have it all."

While the competition did not include a second round of Q&A, the top two candidates advanced to a debate segment, where they presented their advocacies and action plans. Chelsea faced the United States' bet, Yolina Lindquist, in this final exchange.

Chelsea spoke about an advocacy that has been close to her heart since her Miss Universe Philippines 2025 stint: environmental protection. She highlighted the devastating effects of climate change in the Philippines, particularly the worsening floods experienced by many communities.

"That's why my advocacy, Paradise of the Mangroves Reforestation Project, aims to address both natural problems and economic problems. In this action plan, we are planning to plant 5,000 propagules in one hectare. And that would be set in the municipality of Libak, province of Sultan Kudarat, Philippines," Chelsea shared.

"And I believe in my project. And with this, I believe that the economic growth will definitely go up to 20 to 30% in just one year. And I hope that you continue to support me in this mission. Because I believe that the list of seeds that we plant today will grow to a forest of change tomorrow," she explained.

Chelsea made the most of her Miss Cosmo 2025 journey, earning multiple awards even during the preliminary rounds. She won Eventista's Iconic Swimsuit Award and the Parade of Beauty Award, and also secured Cosmo People's Choice with 28.3 million online votes.

Congratulations, Chelsea!