(Eagle News) — Catriona Elisa Gray was crowned Miss Universe-Philippines 2018 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Sunday night, March 18.
Gray is set to represent the country in the most awaited 67th Miss Universe pageant.
The 24-year-old stunner was a consistent crowd favorite, winning five major awards, including the first-ever Pitoy Moreno National Costume Award.
She was named Best in Swimsuit, Best in Long Gown, and Best in National Costume, Binibining Miss Ever Bilena, and Jag Denim Queen.
In the question and answer portion H.E. US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Yong Kim asked Gray: “After the devastating war, Marawi is now on its way to recovery. What is your message to the young women of Marawi?.”
“Thank you for that question. My answer and my message to the women is to be strong. As women, we’re the head of the household and we have amazing influence not only in our families, as mothers, sisters and friends, but also in our community. If we could get the women to stay strong and be that image of strength for the children and the people around them, then once the rebuilding is complete and is underway, the morale of the community will stay strong and high. Thank you,” Gray answered, touching the hearts of many.
As the new Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2018, Catriona wins:
• A one-year ambassadorship contract with Cream Silk
• A P500,000 management contract from Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc.
• A P500,000 Dairy Queen endorsement contract that includes a TV commercial
• A complete set of wardrobe from BPCI
• A full scholarship training from Dale Carnegie
• 18 months of salon services and a gym membership
• Personal accident insurance
• P25,000 cash and P25,000 worth of Ever Bilena products
• A P500,000 Pizza Hut endorsement contract, including a TV feature
In 2016, Gray also competed in the pageant and was hailed as Miss World Philippines.
She competed at the Miss World pageant in the same year, where she landed in the Top 5.