Alden Richards, Gabbi Garcia grateful to be among Miss Universe Philippines 2024 hosts

Alden Richards and Gabbi Garcia were grateful and happy to be among the hosts of the recent Miss Universe Philippines coronation night.

According to Nelson Canlas’ report on “24 Oras,” Friday, it was actually Gabbi’s first time hosting the national pageant.

“I didn't really expect for it to turn out like that but I made sure I prepared for it so it wasn't just, you know, me appearing there and just reading the whole script. It was me preparing days before,” the Sparkle star said.

Gabbi said that she also saw the fans’ posts persuading her to give the competition a try.

“I saw that also. Dahil doon sa frustration ng dream ko, naging host ako bigla ng Miss Universe. I super want talaga. Ever since I was a kid I've been very, very vocal about it,” she said.

Meanwhile, it was already Alden’s second time being tapped to host the competition.

“I really enjoyed hosting Miss Universe Philippines even last year and it's a different experience. Tapos kasama ko pa ‘yung dalawang co-host ko, si R’bonney and Jeannie Mai, na talagang nadala nila ako,” Alden said.

The Asia's Multimedia Star's energy was high-powered during his hosting stint on Wednesday, which at once earned praises and amused viewers.

"Natatawa lang akong panoorin kasi parang halos ganun din naman 'yung delivery ko before. Ang laki kasi ng MOA Arena so I really had to, and then the fans are there screaming. Gusto kong sabayan 'yung excitement nila," he said.

Chelsea Manalo of Bulacan was crowned the new Miss Universe Philippines. She will compete at the upcoming international pageant in Mexico.

Aside from Chelsea, four queens were also crowned: Alexie Brooks of Iloilo is Miss Eco International Philippines 2025, Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon Province is Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024, Tarah Valencia of Baguio is Miss Supranational Philippines 2025, and Cyrille Payumo of Pampanga is Miss Charm Philippines 2025.

— Carby Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News