Philippines, we have a queen!
Filipino-Australian Catriona Gray was crowned as the 2016 Miss World Philippines during the coronation night held at the Manila Hotel Tent City on Sun, Oc 2.
The 22-year-old model, who hails from Oas, Albay, bested 23 other contestants and will represent the country in the Miss World 2016 pageant to be held in Washington DC.
It was clear early on in the pageant that Catriona was the favorite to win after bagging almost all of the contest’s special awards, including Best in Swimsuit and Best in Long Gown.
Asked why she should be hailed as the new Miss World Philippines during the pageant’s final question and answer portion, Catriona said: “To be a Miss World is to pass the torch that burns with passion and purpose. If I am to become Miss World Philippines, I would dedicate my voice and essence to carry that torch and to set charitable causes alike such as my personal advocacy, the Paraiso: Bright Beginnings Project”
WATCH: Here are the 25 candidates of the 2016 Miss World Philippines pageant
She added: “And I would focus on passing on this torch to empower others because I believe together, there is no darkness in this world that our light can’t overcome.”
Catriona succeeds Hillarie Parungao, who landed in the top 10 of the Miss World 2015 pageant in China.
All eyes will be on Catriona this December as she attempts to be the second Filipina Miss World titleholder after Megan Young, who won the crown in 2013.
Why was Catriona chosen as the new Miss World Philippines? Check out these photos of Catriona to find out why she deserves the crown.
