Since Catriona Gray emerged victorious among 93 other Miss Universe 2018 candidates, it’s now time for her to fulfill her duties and responsibilities as the 67th Miss Universe winner.
On Monday, January 7, Catriona Gray started off her reign by going on her media tours in the United States. And even though it’s her birthday week, Gray has been busy attending sit-down interviews with “Good Morning America”, “Live with Kelly and Ryan”, “Good Day, New York”, and the “Build Series”.
As part of her US week-long media rounds, the newly-crowned queen talked about the symbolism behind her iconic dress; her journey to being Miss Universe 2018; and lastly, the reason as to why she joined the prestigious pageant in the first place.
On the second day of her tour, she had an in-depth discussion with the Build Series —a live interview series where fans get a chance to sit inches away from the biggest names in various industries.
Hosted by Kerry Justich, the 25-year-old beauty queen was asked a series of questions from the fans. One of these was about the dispute between the Philippines and Australia – after the latter’s publications tagged her as “Miss Queensland.”
However, Gray laughed off the seeming war between the two countries.
“I really feel that I am Miss Philippines. I feel like a Filipina, a Filipino woman. It just so happened that when I was growing up, it was very much in Australia and I think you can be both. I mean, I did grow up with those two sides of the world, if you would.”
She went on to say that Aussies were just feeling very excited because of the holiday season.
“I just thought it was funny that there was almost a ‘war.’ No, she’s ours! She’s practically a Miss Australia. I am a Miss Philippines but I can’t blame them for being excited from feeling the high spirits. So, let them have that.”
Watch the interview below to know more about Catriona Gray’s advocacy and stance on certain issues:
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Read more from InqPOP!:
Australians dispute Miss Universe Catriona Gray’s win
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Catriona Gray conquered the world, the universe rather, and Pinoys are all proud of her
