Amid the intensity of the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, Catriona Gray emphasizes the importance of supporting all contestants, and encourages fans worldwide to refrain from posting negative comments.
On November 6, 2023, PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) had a quick chat with Catriona at the grand launch of H&M and Rabanne's new collection in Makati City.
During the interview, Catriona hoped for a positive atmosphere during this edition.
She implored, "For the pageant fans, please just support all of the girls who are competing and doing their best.
"Because even though we are partaking in a larger conversation of either supporting them or offering our opinions, sana it can be in a positive way.
"If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all.
"Let it be a celebration naman."
When asked to give the candidates an adivice, she said, "Enjoy! You've prepared so hard to get to this point. Just enjoy the experience of being there.
"I know it's a competition, but don't allow that to cloud your experience in a competitive night.
"Enjoy it, take the most out of the experience, form friendships, and make memories there as well."
CATRIONA ON MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT REQUIREMENTS
What are Catriona's thoughts on the recent changes in the Miss Universe pageant. requirements.
This year, the Miss Universe Organization announced the removal of age restrictions, following its decision a year ago to allow mothers and married women to participate in the pageant.
Catriona saw these as keeping up with the times.
"I think it's a step towards inclusivity because I don't think a woman's age should ever limit her to what she can go out and achieve and pursue.
"So I feel like it's a good step for the Miss Universe Organization to be taking."
Catriona added, "I understand the argument if you have young children, but I mean that's a responsibility that the woman takes on herself.
"She can commit to being a present mother and also doing the duties of a Miss Universe.
"But again, it's taking all those limitations off of women.
"So let's [not] say, 'Oh, you're gonna age out! If you become a mother, you can't be anything else.' So I'm super for it."
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