Habangbuhay na umanong magiging thankful sa Panginoon ang half Australian beauty mula Bicol na si Catriona Magnayon Gray, kahit pa tapos na ang kanyang Miss Universe reign.
Pahayag ito ng 25-year-old 2018 Miss Universe sa kanyang final walk kanina sa coronation ng 68th Miss Universe sa Atlanta, Georgia, bago ipinasa ang korona kay Zozibini Tunzi ng South Africa.
Narito ang makabuluhang mensahe ni Cat kung saan naluluha ito habang nakangiting kumakaway sa international audience:
“I’ve always believe that as women, we have the power to redefine our generation. When we raise our voices together, the words “women power” become more than just a phrase – they become a movement. I wanted my reign to be a year with purpose. From advocating for quality education for all to raising awareness for HIV/AIDs, I’ve strived to use my voice for good.
Thank you to mom and dad for always believing in me, to Paula and Esther for your mentorship, the Miss Universe organization, and to team Catriona, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And to my beloved Philippines, isang [karangalan] po ito. You endlessly inspire me and give me hope. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat. Above all, thank you God. I lift everything up to glorify and honor you.
As I close this chapter, I do so with a grateful heart. To everyone with a dream, know that your dreams are valid, and on your path you are never denied, and only redirected.”
Samantala, kung pumatok ang “lava walk, lava gown” ng pang-apat na Pinay Miss Universe noong 2018, binansagan naman bilang “reflection” ang final walk nito.
Kuwento ng Kapampangan designer na si Mak Tumang na siyang nasa likod ng “lava” ideas, hango ang kulay blue gown ni Gray sa Philippine eagle na tanaw at kita ang reflection sa mga karagatan ng Pilipinas.
Kung mapapansin, tila konektado ang gown ni Catriona sa eagle-inspired ding national costume ni Miss Universe-Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados.
