Celeste Cortesi is getting an extra boost of motivation to win the Philippines' fourth Miss Universe crown now that her loved ones have finally arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The 25-year-old Filipino-Italian model had a moment with her mom Maria Luisa Rabimbi and some of her friends and family on Friday, January 13, 2023 (January 14, PH time).
The beautiful moment was captured by celebrity and beauty queen stylist Oli Sara on video, which he uploaded on his Instagram account.
In the caption, Oli said Celeste's reunion with her mom happened during a break from the rehearsals while doing an interview with TV Patrol correspondent Dyan Castillejo.
His full caption read, published as is: "an exclusive moment with PHILIPPINES’ @celeste_cortesi at the media room, with the tightest security in place! @missuniverse"
"She’s glowing! Catch @dyancastillejo’s exclusive interview tonight on TV Patrol!"
Also spotted in the video was Celeste's loving boyfriend Mathew Custodio, who is seen standing at the back.
Read related article: Celeste Cortesi's boyfriend Mathew Custodio on girlfriend: "thats my baby"
In a previous interview, Celeste said her mom has always been supportive of her pageant journey.
She said, "My mom always expressed her desire for me joining and becoming Miss Universe. She’s always been very supportive of me.
"She would always encourage and motivate me during challenging times in my competitions. She is my strength."
In a separate interview with PLDT Home, Celeste said her mom shows her support even if they're hundreds of miles apart.
Celeste has been living in the Philippines for four years. Her mom, however, is currently based in Italy.
“I connect with my mother in Italy through the many social platforms available. She is constantly updated with my daily activities and whereabouts.
"We are so thankful for good internet connectivity because I can video-call my mother, my sister, and my best friend all the way from Italy with no interruptions.
"We get to catch up and see how much we’ve grown since the last time we saw each other physically," she added.
Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu of India will crown her successor at the Miss Universe 2022 grand coronation night happening this January 14, 2023, (January 15, PH time) at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center.
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