Pia passing Miss Universe  crown to Iris hailed as ‘brightest symbol’ of PHL-France ties

Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of the Philippines passing the Miss Universe crown to Iris Mittenaere of France is the "brightest symbol" of the friendship between the two countries, the French Embassy in Manila said on Monday.

French Ambassador Thierry Mathou made the statement after Mittenaere bested 85 other candidates in the 65th edition of the Miss Universe Pageant and on occasion of the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the Philippines and France.

"The crowning of Miss France Iris Mittenaere as Miss Universe 2016 a year after Miss Philippines Pia Wurtzbach is the brightest symbol of the spirit of our PhilFrance : Feel French ! festival, which was recently launched to celebrate the 70th anniversary of French-Philippine friendship," Mathou said.

"It is even more symbolic this year as we mark the 70th year anniversary of diplomatic ties between France and the Philippines. To witness Pia Wurtzbach pass the crown to Iris Mittenaere was truly a beautiful moment that represents the friendship between our two nations and our common quest for excellence," he added. —NB, GMA News