Miss World Philippines 2016 Catriona Gray (INQUIRER PHOTO).
TWENTY-TWO-year-old Catriona Elisa Gray, who amassed the lion’s share of special awards, was crowned Miss World Philippines during the pageant’s finals at the Manila Hotel Tent last Sunday night.
The Bicolana model bested 23 other aspirants bagging all special awards; Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Gown, Best in Fashion Runway, Miss Hanna’s Beach Resort and Miss Manila Hotel.
She earned a total of P100,000 from these special titles. Catriona also received the Miss Figlia Shoes and Miss Folded & Hung awards in preliminary activities.
For winning the crown, the Filipino-Australian beauty will be representing the Philippines in the 2016 Miss World pageant in Washington D.C. in December. She also received P500,000 and a brand new Hyundai Eon car.
A management contract from Viva Artists Management Agency worth P1 million is also waiting for Catriona. Capampangan lawyer Arienne Calingo placed second, while Makati lass Ivanna Paris finished third.
Marah Muñoz from Parañaque City came in fourth, while Miss Photogenic Sandra Lemonon from Pasig City rounded up Catriona’s court.
Gray received her crown from last year’s winner, Hilarie Parungao, who finished in the Top 10 in the 2015 Miss World pageant in China.
The Miss World Philippines titleholders Gwendoline Ruais, who placed second in the 2011 Miss World pageant in London, and Queenie Rehman who finished in the Top 8 in the 2012 Miss World contest in China, shared the stage with actor Richard Gutierrez in hosting the pageant finale.