Celeste Cortesi on handling pain of Miss Universe exit: 'I went through a very difficult time'

For the first time ever, Celeste Cortesi opened up on her feelings following her Miss Universe exit.

On Thursday's episode of "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda," Celeste said the following weeks after Miss Universe 2022 coronation was the hardest for her, but her family and friends who were by her side made it all bearable.

"Sobrang hirap para sa akin, but I had my family there, so I was okay," the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 said.

"Of course, I went through a very difficult time, but I know in my heart that the respect, love, and support that I gained from the Filipino fans [are] really more valuable than the Miss Universe crown," she added.

In the end, Celeste is at peace, knowing she did everything she could to represent the Philippines well.

"I really know na ginawa ko ang lahat para sa bansa, so I'm happy," she said.

Celeste bowed out early of the Miss Universe 2022 pageant on January 15 in New Orleans. It was the first time since 2009 that the Philippines' bet did not make it to the semifinals.

A few days after the coronation night, Celeste penned a heartfelt letter and said that representing the Philippines was her greatest honor.

—Hermes Joy Tunac/MGP, GMA Integrated News