Filipino-American R'Bonney Gabriel of USA is the new Miss Universe!

Miss USA R'bonney Gabriel is named the new Miss Universe 2022! The beauty from Texas, USA is Filipino-American.

Out of the over 80 candidates vying for the crown and prestigious title of the 71st Miss Universe, R'bonney Gabriel of the United States of America emerged as the new queen at the renowned beauty pageant's coronation night at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Miss Venezuela was hailed as the first runner-up while Miss Dominican Republic was placed as the 2nd runner-up.

During the final round of the competition, all of the finalists were asked the same exact question: “If you win Miss Universe, how would you work to demonstrate this as an empowering and progressive organization?”

The reigning Miss Universe 2022's winning answer was, “I would use it to be a transformational leader. As a very passionate designer, I've been sewing for 13 years, I use fashion as a force for good. In my industry, I'm cutting down on pollution through recycled materials when I make my clothing. I teach sewing classes to women who have survived from human trafficking and domestic violence.

"And I say that because it is so important to invest in others, invest in our community, and use your unique talent to make a difference. We all have something special and when we plant those seeds to other people in our life, we transform them and we use that as a vehicle for change.”

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Philippines Celeste Cortesi ended her journey early in the competition as she was not part of the Top 16.

We're still proud of you, Celeste, and congratulations to R'bonney Gabriel on your well-deserved win!

GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT CELESTE CORTESI IN THIS GALLERY.