Catriona Gray. Photo by Ganiel Krishnan, ABS-CBN News. 

MANILA — Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray expressed admiration and support for the Philippines’ representative, Chelsea Manalo, as she competes for the prestigious crown in Mexico.

In an interview, Gray highlighted Manalo’s “incredible stage performance.”

“I would love to see her personality come out more. But I’m sure she’s being tactical about it. There’s a very youthful presence about her, and I’m excited to see how that transforms on stage,” she said .

 

Gray, who is set to fly to Mexico immediately after her all-star concert tour in Canada with other Cornerstone artists, expressed her excitement about her first-ever trip to Mexico.

“I’m excited — it’s my first time going to Mexico, so I’m really going with fresh eyes and documenting it as well, as I do with every place I go,” Gray shared.

“Of course, Miss Universe has a different energy altogether. I can’t wait to be there,” she added.

This year marks Gray’s third consecutive appearance as a behind-the-scenes commentator for the Miss Universe pageant, where she will be providing exclusive insights into the competition.

Her role as commentator has given fans unique perspectives into the pageant world, and she’s thrilled to bring that same energy to the 2024 event in Mexico.