Malacañang, VP congratulate Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray

Pia Ranada

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Malacañang, VP congratulate Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray

Miss Universe Organization

(UPDATED) 'Ms Gray’s triumph sets the bar high in empowering more Filipino women to believe in themselves and to fight for their own place in the universe,' says Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED)  – Malacañang basked in the glory of newly-crowned Miss Universe Catriona Gray, congratulating her for a victory which once again put the beauty of Filipinas on the map.

“Ms Gray truly made the entire Philippines proud when she sashayed on the global stage and showcased the genuine qualities defining a Filipina beauty: confidence, grace, intelligence and strength in the face of tough challenges,” said Presidential Spokesman and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Monday, December 17.

In his statement, sent mere minutes after Gray made her first walk as Miss Universe 2018, Panelo said Gray has become a symbol of women empowerment.

“Ms Gray’s triumph sets the bar high in empowering more Filipino women to believe in themselves and to fight for their own place in the universe. We salute and admire her victory,” said President Rodrigo Duterte’s spokesman.

“In her success, Miss Philippines has shown to the world that women in our country have the ability to turn dreams into reality through passion, diligence, determination and hard work,” he added.

Vice President Leni Robredo celebrates, too

Vice President Leni Robredo meanwhile said Gray’s victory brought “happiness to millions of households” across the nation.

“Regardless of different backgrounds and allegiances, in this, you have brought us together. With the eyes of the world and the entire Filipino nation on you, you chose to highlight your work with the poor, and to send a much-needed message of hope to all,” said Robredo.

The Vice President, a Bicolana like Gray, said the latter’s inspiring words makes her a true winner.

“I wish you the best, and may you make full use of your new role as an ambassador to continue bringing the message of hope to the world. Mabuhay ang mga Bicolana (Long live the Bicolanas)!” said Robredo.

 

Read Malacañang’s entire statement on Gray’s Miss Universe pageant win here:

On the 2018 Miss Universe Pageant

The Palace wishes to congratulate newly crowned Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

Ms. Gray truly made the entire Philippines proud when she sashayed on the global stage and showcased the genuine qualities defining a Filipina beauty: confidence, grace, intelligence and strength in the face of tough challenges. In her success, Miss Philippines has shown to the world that women in our country have the ability to turn dreams into reality through passion, diligence, determination and hard work.

Ms. Gray’s triumph sets the bar high in empowering more Filipino women to believe in themselves and to fight for their own place in the universe. We salute and admire her victory.

Catriona’s crowning glory is placing the Philippines in the world map again for its beauty and elegance that matches the world renowned attraction of the many scenic and mesmerising islands in our country.

Salvador S. Panelo
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel
& Presidential Spokesperson

– Rappler.com

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Pia Ranada

Pia Ranada is Rappler’s Community Lead, in charge of linking our journalism with communities for impact.