Return Miss Universe to Binibini? Catriona Gray weighs in

MANILA, Philippines — As Binibining Pilipinas 2022 finals looms on the horizon with a supposed schedule on July 31 in Smart Araneta Coliseum, there were appeals to revert the Miss Universe title to Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) from its current franchise owner, Empire Philippines Holdings Inc. 

BPCI, under the Araneta Group, handled the search for the Philippines’ annual Miss Universe representative for over 50 years, producing four winners: Gloria Diaz (1969), Margie Moran (1973), Pia Wurtzbach (2015) and Catriona Gray (2018).

Since the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Organization under Empire took over of MUPH in 2019, the country has so far continued its 12-year semi-final streak, with the latest bet, Beatrice Luigi Gomez, finishing at the top five.

Despite this, there were still those not satisfied with MUPH’s handling of the local pageant, calling for BPCI to reclaim it.

If Catriona, who won the title under BPCI, would be asked whether she wants Miss Universe returned to BPCI or to remain with Empire, here is her reply: “I’m not necessarily an advocate for certain groups to own certain things, as long as the platform is still there for the women because that’s what I believe pageantry is about.”

“It’s not about having the best stage production or the best outfits. It’s about giving women ample platform to speak their mind on what they’re passionate about,” she expounded in a recent exclusive interview with Philstar.com. 

She thinks both MUPH and Binibini are doing a great job in grooming the country’s representatives for the international titles they are handling.

“I think the more the merrier, the more engagement, the more awareness, I don’t know why fight over it.”

Catriona, however, confirmed that she will be participating at the upcoming Binibining Pilipinas 2022 finals reportedly set on July 31. Whether as a judge, a presenter or altogether different, the model-singer was mum about it.

Catriona recently gave a short talk as brand ambassador of Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance, a complete skincare line for the face and body. Products include Brightness Reveal Creamy Cleanser, Brightness Refresh Toner, Brightening Day  Protection Cream SPF 15, Brightening Night Comfort Cream, Brightness Reveal Body Wash, Brightness Reveal Bar and Brightening Lotion. 

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