Queen’s welcome for Miss Universe Catriona Gray at homecoming

MANILA, Philippines — A grand welcome fit for a queen awaits Catriona Gray when she arrives on Feb. 20 for her official homecoming as Miss Universe.

Gray won the fourth Miss Universe crown for the country in Bangkok on Dec. 17 last year with her intelligence and her now-famous Lava Walk and flaming-red gown, both inspired by Mayon Volcano in Albay where her Filipino mother hails from.

This was relayed to The STAR yesterday by the Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) headed by Stella Marquez-Araneta, with the go-signal of the Miss Universe Organization.

Gray will be coming from New York City, which is her home during her one-year reign. The last time such a grand welcome was held was in January 2016 for Pia Wurtzbach after she won in Las vegas.

After winning, Gray came home briefly and secretly spent the holidays with her family before flying to NYC first week of January to kick off her reign with guestings in popular TV shows.

Gray will grace a victory parade around Makati and Manila on Feb. 21, and a similar parade will be held on Feb. 23 at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City, where Gray started her journey to the Miss Universe crown in March last year by winning the 2018 Miss Universe Philippines.

During her homecoming which is supported and spearheaded by BPCI, Gray will visit organizations close to her heart such as LoveYourself, which is advocating for HIV/Aids education and testing, and Smile Train, an international charity that supports 100 percent free cleft-repair surgery and care for children in underprivileged communities.

She is also expected to visit Tondo, Manila, where she has been supporting Young Focus Philippines that provides education for children living in the area.

Before going back to NYC, Gray is also scheduled to meet with select media and VIPs.