On Monday, December 17 in Bangkok after a trailblazing ceremony, Miss Philippines was crowned the winner of the 2018 Miss Universe.

Catriona Gray, 24, finished first ahead of the South African and Venezuelan finalists in the glittering televised event hosted by American comic turned TV host Steve Harvey and supermodel Ashley Graham.

In the final round, Gray earned applause describing her work in the slums of the Philippine capital Manila. After winning she told reporters she would like to expand her work with an organisation in the Philippines that promotes education on HIV and AIDS.

Gray — a student of music theory — beat more than 90 contestants from around the globe in the 67th instalment of Miss Universe, which was held in the Thai capital’s Impact Arena.

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Photo Credit: Getty