LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – Bicolanos celebrated as Miss Philippines Catriona Gray was crowned Miss Universe 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand Monday.
Bicolanos were glued to livestreams and TV early, full of hope that the pride of Albay will win the country’s second Miss Universe crown in three years.
They were relieved as Gray hurled each round in the beauty pageant and closing in on the crown.
Time stood still when host Steve Harvey was set to announce this year’s Miss Universe.
When Harvey revealed Gray as the winner to the world loud and clear, Bicolanos erupted in joy.
They turned to social media, some on Facebook, to congratulate her and post photos with her during her visit to Albay in October 2016.
In Oas, Albay, where Gray’s mother hails, the local government organized a public viewing at the covered court for Catriona, according to Mayor Domingo Escoto Jr.
“Naglagay kami ng malaking screen para sa libreng panood ng Miss Universe. Noong ina-announce na ‘yung Top 10, biglang dumami ‘yung tao at nung inannounce na ‘yung Miss Universe, ag si Catriona nga, nagsigawan at nagtatalon ‘yung mga tao. Pati ako, napasigaw at napa-talon!” Escoto narrated.
He said that the LGU is now planning a homecoming for their town’s pride.
“Kung mabibigyan kami ng pagkakataon na makausap ‘yung organizer ng Miss Universe, hihilingin namin na makapunta siya dito at mabigyan ng hero’s welcome,” he said.
Escoto added that he will consult experts for a portrait to be put at Oas park in honor of the newly crowned Miss Universe.
“Kukonsulta kami sa mga eksperto kung ano puwede gawin kasi plano naming maglagay ng self image or portrait ni Catriona na ilalagay namin sa park. Ito ay bilang pagbigay dangal dahil nilagay niya ang aming lugar sa mapa ng mundo at para naman sa mga susunod na henerasyon na minsan ay may naging Miss Universe na galing sa Oas,” he said.
Escoto said that a legislative initiative will be made to bestow recognition to Catriona for bringing honor to Oas and the country.
“Yes, kasama din sa plano na magkaroon ng municipal resolution na mabigyan ng recognition si Catriona sa pagbibigay dangal sa ating bansa at sa Oas na rin,” Escoto said.
Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said Gray is truly an Albayana and was the most prepared candidate ever in this year’s Miss Universe.
“Truly an Albayana, she was the most prepared candidate ever- if you prepare to fight calamities, the more you are prepared for victory. She is regal as Mayon is majestic. The entire Albay is happy and proud of her achievement as proud she is of her roots. I worked with Catriona in her previous quests and she was excited about her role as tourism champion for Albay,” Salceda said. (Nino Luces)
