WATCH: Catriona thanks Philippines anew for motivating her in Miss Universe journey

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray once again expressed gratitude to Filipinos for taking part in her Miss Universe journey and victory.

“I just wanna say thank you to the Philippines, my country. You know you guys have supported me all through this and if not for you I would have not had the insurance or the spirit to do what I do,” she said in a message video released by the Miss Universe Organization.

The 24-year-old arrived in the country on Wednesday, days after her win, but she is flying to New York City on Thursday to fulfill her duties as Miss Universe.

In her short stay in the Philippines, she attended press events for the Christmas's Gentle Hands Charity event.

Gray is set to return to the Philippines early next year for her grand homecoming.