Catriona Gray backs ‘bunso’ Ahtisa Manalo at Miss Universe 2025
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray expressed her support for Philippine bet Ahtisa Manalo in Miss Universe 2025 as she quipped about “resting” this year, a nod to how she would go viral among Pinoy fans during every edition of the pageant since her victory.
The former Miss Universe titleholder was among the hosts of the Miss Sultan Kudarat 2025 beauty pageant held at the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Gymnasium on Thursday, November 20.
During the event, Catriona reacted to remarks from her co-host about Pinoy pageant fans replaying clips of her Miss Universe 2018 performance every year, with some calling her the “blueprint” for winning beauty queens.
“Pero feeling ko, baka magpahinga ako this year,” the beauty queen responded with a knowing smile to the audience.
“Best of luck to our bunso! She’s doing an incredible job,” Catriona added.
Last year, Filipino fans admitted to rewatching Catriona’s performance in Miss Universe 2018 after Philippine bet Chelsea Manalo failed to make it to the Top 12 of Miss Universe 2024.
Catriona became memorable for her outstanding stage presence, eloquence, and overall poise, which have continued to inspire pageant fans and aspiring beauty queens alike.
RELATED: Pinoy pageant fans rewatch Catriona Gray’s Miss Universe 2018 performance after Top 12 result
Meanwhile, Ahtisa Manalo from Quezon Province is currently vying for the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown at the 74th Miss Universe being held in Thailand.
So far, she has advanced to the Top 5 roster.
READ: Ahtisa Manalo advances to Top 12 at 74th Miss Universe | Ahtisa Manalo makes Top 30 cut at 74th Miss Universe
