MANILA – Janine Tugonon extended her congratulations to Catriona Gray for winning Miss Universe, a pageant she joined back in 2012.
In a series of Instagram Stories posts, Tugonon praised Gray for answering “genuinely with intellect, confidence, and heart.”
“Most prepared Miss Philippines we’ve ever sent. Mabuhay ka!” she said.
In another post, Tugonon described Gray as “gorgeous.”
Gray was crowned Miss Universe 2018, making her the country’s fourth titleholder after Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margie Moran (1973), and Gloria Diaz (1969).
Tugonon nearly won Miss Universe in 2012, finishing first runner-up to Olivia Culpo of the United States.