In the talent search competition known as Slay Model Search Asia 2023, Tracey Dela Cruz, a Filipino model from Paranaque City, achieved remarkable success. Amongst 24 finalists representing Southeast Asia, Tracey emerged as the victor of the prestigious title ‘Bigo Fan Favourite.’ Not only did she win the hearts of the judges and the crowd, but she also captured the ‘Top Vote Box’ by receiving the highest number of votes through the Bigo Live app throughout the competition.
Tracey Dela Cruz, the recipient of a trophy and a gift check of 100,000 Bigo Beans, expressed her gratitude upon winning the title. She proudly represented the Philippines in this groundbreaking event and cherished the opportunity to create lasting memories with fellow participants from across Asia. Tracey’s surprise was evident when she discovered that she had earned the esteemed title of ‘Bigo Fan Favourite,’ amassing the highest number of votes from supporters throughout the region. She expressed her joy and appreciation for the platform she was given to inspire others and uplift trans beauty on a global scale.
Slay Model Search Asia 2023, organized by the renowned international model management agency Slay Model Management, marked a significant milestone as it joined forces with the global livestreaming platform Bigo Live Philippines and the esteemed cosmetics brand MAC Cosmetics. The grand finale, which took place on April 27, showcased the talent of 24 model contestants who confidently graced the runway, demonstrating their beauty, grace, creativity, and confidence throughout various challenges and rounds of the competition.
This innovative talent search competition made history by featuring transgender women from across Asia and was broadcasted on ABS-CBN and Bigo Live, captivating thousands of viewers and garnering support from the Philippines and around the world. Out of the 24 participants hailing from the region, 13 were from the Philippines, while others represented countries such as Thailand, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
During the Semi-Finals, only the top 12 contestants were selected, with six of them being from the Philippines. The shortlisted finalists included Tracey Dela Cruz, KC Cusi, Louell Celis, Durian Bautista, Abby Ecalnir, and Lauren Sanz (in the order they were announced).
The second runner-up position was secured by Sauce Chulalakkul from Thailand, while the first runner-up title went to Abby Ecalnir from the Philippines. Nana Jantarat from Thailand was crowned as the winner of Slay Model Search Asia 2023. As the deserving victor, Nana received a prize package worth a million, which included a modeling contract and a gift check of 1 million beans from Bigo Live.
The event boasted a distinguished panel of judges, featuring notable celebrities and personalities like Vice Ganda and Karylle, the hosts of ‘It’s Showtime,’ Carole Cuasay Tagle, a magazine editor and stylist, and Josh Yugen, a highly acclaimed writer, magazine owner, and National Director for three franchises of the Miss Universe Organization.
Chancy Chen, the Country Manager of Bigo Live Philippines, congratulated all the exceptionally talented finalists and winners of Slay Model Search Asia 2023. Bigo Live took immense pride in being a major sponsor of this inaugural modeling competition, which aimed to celebrate and uplift transgender women in Asia. Chen affirmed Bigo Live’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive space for the trans and LGBTQ+ community to connect, listen, and support one another.
