Celeste Cortesi shares thoughts about Fil-Am Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel

Her recent guesting on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda on GMA was the first time for Celeste Cortesi to appear on television for an exclusive interview since her stint in the Miss Universe 2022 pageant held last January in New Orleans.

The 25-year-old Filipino-Italian beauty queen opened up about her feelings following her early exit in the said competition. Celeste was well-aware that her failure to advance to the Top 16 drew mixed reactions from people in and out of the pageant circle. There were some who pointed out that it was the first time since 2010 that the Philippines didn’t enter the pageant semi-finals.

“You know, Tito Boy, I really put so much hard work, effort and time into this and I really wanted to win not just for myself but also for my country. I wanted to recognize the hard work of my team as well. So, sobrang masaya ako, sobrang proud,” began Celeste who now impressively speaks in both Tagalog and English.

With supportive boyfriend Mathew Custodio

She continued, “Sobrang hirap para sa akin, of course, (because) mataas ang expectations from others but also from me so, you know, I really thought I got this. All I have to do is work very hard and I will get it.

“But at the end of the day, we also need to understand that the judges were looking for something else and it’s fine. At the end of the day, masaya ako (para) sa mga winners. I’m proud of them and they really deserve their position.”

Filipino-American R’Bonney Gabriel was crowned Miss Universe 2022. According to reports, she’s the first Fil-Am woman crowned as Miss USA, and the first Miss USA representative to win Miss Universe in a decade.

“I’ve always said in my past interviews that Miss Universe is a destiny and it’s her destiny. So, I’m happy for her,” the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 remarked.

She admitted that the weeks after Miss Universe 2022 coronation were most difficult for her to handle, what with the bashers who seemed to have had a field day typing and posting their comments on social media.

Good thing, her family and friends stayed by her side and helped her cope with the challenge.

“I have friends and family very close to me especially after the coronation night. Sobrang hirap para sa akin but I had my family there so I was okay.

“Of course, I went through a very difficult time, but I know in my heart that the love and support that I gained from the Filipino fans are really more valuable than the Miss Universe crown. I really know na ginawa ko ang lahat para sa bansa, so I’m happy,” declared Celeste.

Her boyfriend, Mathew Custodio, also gave his all-out support to Celeste.

“He came with me to the US. I think what’s really beautiful with our relationship is we give each other space and understanding. He knew that Miss Universe was very important to me so he was really there, especially when I didn’t get in the Top 16. He was beside me the whole time with my mother, with my friends. I’m just very grateful,” she said.

I asked Celeste what is next for her after Miss Universe, she said that she is excited for whatever opportunity will come to her, including offers to enter show business.

“Well, last time, I had a cameo role in Darna. I had so much fun because it was my first time acting and having a full script in Tagalog. So, I hope that I will have more opportunities. I really want to improve, explore new things. I’m open (to do acting), that’s why I’m learning how to speak Tagalog. Nag-aaral ako so let’s see (laughs),” she said.