Catriona Gray is the new Miss Universe Philippines!

To the delight (but not the surprise) of her fans and many pageant enthusiasts, Catriona Gray won the coveted Universe title and was crowned during the Grand Coronation Night held at the Smart Araneta Center on Sunday.

She will go on to represent the country in the prestigious and most awaited Miss Universe pageant.

Catriona has been a strong contender since day one of the 2018 Binibining Pilipinas pageant, having already won hearts when she was crowned Miss World Philipines in 2016. She then finished in the Top 5 of the Miss World 2016 pageant.

During this year’s pageant, she dominated the special awards, winning five awards: Best in Swimsuit, Best in Long Gown, and Best in National Costume, Binibining Miss Ever Bilena, and Jag Denim Queen.

She also shone in the Question and Answer portion, where she was asked to give a message to the women of Marawi City, who were caught in the crossfire between government forces and Islamic State- linked Maute group.

Catriona encouraged the women to be strong because they are heads not only of the family, but also the community.

She said they have to project the image of strength for the children so that the morale of the community will remain strong and high.

The other 2018 titleholders are as follows:

• Binibining Pilipinas Globe: 19 Michelle Gumabao
• Binibining Miss Intercontinental: 39 Karen Gallman
• Grand International Crown: 32 Eva Pysche Patalinjug
• Binibining Supranational: 31 Jehza Mae Huelar
• Binibining Pilipinas International: 17 Maria Ahtisa Manalo
• Miss Universe Philippines: 20 Catriona Gray

The first and second runner ups are Vicki Marie Rushton and Samantha Bernardo respectively.

See below the gallery of winners:

— LA, GMA News