Catriona Gray was a sure winner, says pageant expert

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray was a sure winner for pageant enthusiasts, expert Makoy Manlapaz said on Monday after her fresh victory, which gave the Philippines its fourth crown since joining the contest.

"Day one pa lang ng Binibining Pilipinas, alam na natin na she is Miss Universe material. Lalo na siguro noong nag-first day siya sa Bangkok. So talagang expected win siya," Manlapaz said in an interview on "News To Go."

"Sabi nga nila, if Pia Wurtzbach is a surprise winner, Catriona is a sure winner," Manlapaz added.

Catriona's striking intelligence was what set her apart, complemented by her beauty, height, personality, and advocacy, he also said.

Manlapaz noted that Catriona was a very hands-on candidate and has directly worked with the people from the fashion and pageant industry in conceptualizing the theme that she has showcased to the universe.

"Kaya nga makikita natin... 'yung kanyang mga wardrobe from day one may mga story that's presenting the culture of Philippines. So doon siya, doon ko feeling 'yung pagiging intelligent, pagiging smart niya kasi she knows how to play with the competition," Manlapaz said.

The Filipino-Australian beauty queen's previous experience in her Binibining Pilipinas and Miss World journey also contributed to her win.

Manlapaz added that Catriona's fans witnessed her ultimate transformation when she created her own team and let her natural self show on the Miss Universe stage.

"Very demure siya sa Miss World, very soft-spoken, very classy lady-like. Kasi siguro 'yun ang hinahanap ng Miss World. Pero noong nag-Miss Universe siya, she's very outspoken, very bubbly... I think this is really her personality na talagang lumabas," he said. —Dona Magsino/ LDF, GMA News