Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray believes that there is more to pageantry than just "a fashion show with great-looking women."
During her interview with ABS-CBN News reporter MJ Felipe on January 27, 2024, Catriona was asked about her thoughts on 69-year-old fashion designer Joyce Peñas Cubales joining Miss Universe Philippines-Quezon City (MUPH-QC).
Read: 69-year-old fashion designer Jocelyn Cubales kandidata sa Miss Universe Philippines-QC 2024
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
More than anything, Catriona feels excited about the new rules of the Miss Universe Organization which included the removal of age restrictions.
The renowned beauty titlist exclaims, "Oh, I think it's wonderful! I've always loved the different stories that come through the platform of pageantry.
"Whether it be the trans community advocate or now, in showing that age is just a number."
She expounds: "Especially as a woman, I feel like age is usually used to kind of limit us and our potential.
"There are terms always thrown at women that, ‘Oh, your biological clock is ticking’ or ‘Your time is running out,’ or ‘These are your prime years,’ mga ganyan."
In awe of Joyce's grit to pursue her goal, Catriona expressed, "Just to see a woman who’s unapologetically going after her dream—and it may not look like something we have seen before—but why not?
"She’s enjoying herself, she’s representing her community, and I think those are all great things."
Read: Catriona Gray's parents meet her "twin sister" in Singapore
WHAT PAGEANTRY REPRESENTS
Despite what others may think about the organization's new rules, Catriona stands by her principle of what pageantry represents.
"For me kasi, I'm a fan of pageantry but I also love what pageantry stands for," she relates.
"It gives other women a platform to talk about what they want, or to showcase something, or to represent someone, a community, or something about themselves.
"And so I see pageantry as a lens of that. Not just beautiful women who are fit who are walking on stage."
At the same time, she also feels it's valid for others to easily feel off about the new set the abolition of age restrictions.
"I understand that as well in a way, because it's like a sport, no? Pageantry, we've come accustomed to many things that are considered traditional.
"So, as the rules are starting to be lifted, I can understand why that angers some people and why it rubs them the wrong way."
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