Now that the dust has settled on her Miss Universe win, Catriona Gray has a message for her fellow Filipinos.
The 24-year-old, who beat off 92 contestants to take the coveted crown in Bangkok earlier this week, has thanked her country, saying she could not have done it without its support.
In a video posted by the official Miss Universe account, Gray gushes: "I just want to say thank you to the Philippines, my country. You know, you guys have supported me all through this and if not for you, I would not have had the endurance or spirit to do what I do."
The model touched down in Manila on Wednesday (December 19) to a hero's welcome, as she was greeted by a large crowd gathered to congratulate her on her title win.
She told waiting press she was "so happy" to be back in the Philippines, and said she was looking forward to getting started on her charity work and spending Christmas with her family.
Former Miss Philippines and Miss World, Gray garnered a lot of attention during the competition for her incredible confidence, impressing even supermodels with her catwalks.
For her evening dresses, she chose to work with Filipino designer Mak Tumang, who created two stunning gowns depicting the heritage and culture of their country.
Catriona will spend her year-long reign as Miss Universe working closely with the organisation and carrying out charity work. In particular, she will become an ambassador for HIV/AIDS awareness, after losing a close friend to the disease.
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Read more:
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From Miss Philippines to Miss Universe: the previous Filipina winners and where they are now
Miss Universe 2018: The two contestants from the Arab world vying for the crown
Pinoy pride: the story behind Miss Philippines’ winning Miss Universe dress
Australian tabloid claims Aussie 'ownership' of Filipina Miss Universe Catriona Gray
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