Malacañang has extended its congratulations to Miss France Iris Mittenaere for clinching the Miss Universe crown during the pageant held in Manila yesterday.
“Congratulations to the new Miss Universe, Iris Mittenaere of France. People of France are rejoicing. Truly, this is a proud moment for their country,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said.
“Iris brought tremendous joy to her people by representing France well on the international stage with her winning grace, regal bearing, and inspiring answer,” he added.
Abella said the new Miss Universe “won not only the nod of the judges but the affection of the entire world as well.”
The Palace also lauded Miss Philippines Maxine Medina for her performance at the pageant. “We likewise congratulate Maria Mika Maxine Medina for making it to the Top 6. She represented the Philippines well in the international scene,” Abella said.
Lawmakers also lauded Medina for her performance.
Leyte Rep. Yedda Kittilstvedt-Romualdez, former Binibining Pilipinas International 1996, praised Medina for showing to the world the “beauty and strength” of the Filipino nation.
“We are very proud of what Maxine has achieved because she showed to the whole world how strong and beautiful the Philippines is. Congratulations to Maxine and also to the organizers for the successful hosting of Ms. Universe pageant,” she said.
“We hope this will trigger more opportunities for the Philippines to host big international events,” Romualdez said. (Genalyn D. Kabiling and Charissa M. Luci)