Catriona Gray expressed confidence in Bea Millan-Windorski’s Miss Universe journey as she prepares to represent the Philippines this November, while also taking center stage at Haydee Garcia’s fashion debut.
As she took to the runway for Haydee Garcia’s highly anticipated fashion debut, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray shared her excitement and confidence in newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Bea Millan-Windorski, who is set to represent the country on the international stage later this year.
Speaking on Bea’s upcoming journey to Puerto Rico for the Miss Universe competition this November, Catriona expressed optimism about the new queen’s potential.
“I’m very excited for her journey. I think she can do really well, and I’m excited to see how it unfolds,” she said.
When asked about what today’s Miss Universe judges may be looking for, Catriona admitted that pageant standards have evolved over time.
“As a fan, I honestly can’t say exactly what they’re looking for. Before, I thought being a strong spokesperson was one of the most important qualities, but now I feel like they are also emphasizing certain looks,” she shared.
Still, the former titleholder believes Bea possesses the qualities needed to make a strong impression on the global stage.
“She speaks very well, she’s very statuesque, and I think she’s a great representative for the Philippines. If I were one of the judges, she would do really, really well,” Catriona added.
When asked if she would have any special participation in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico, Catriona simply replied, “None so far.”
Beyond sharing her thoughts on the country’s newest beauty queen, Catriona also captivated audiences as the finale muse for Haydee Garcia’s first-ever luxury ready-to-wear runway presentation.
A celebration of beauty, style, and grace, the fashion house unveiled its Spring 2026 collection, Petals & Poetry, marking a significant new chapter for the brand after years of specializing in bespoke bridal gowns and couture formalwear.
The collection highlights quiet elegance and refined femininity, blending thoughtful craftsmanship with modern versatility qualities that resonated deeply with Catriona.
“This collection is made by talented women to truly make women feel beautiful and feminine. That’s what I love about this collection. As you can see, there are so many silhouettes,” she shared.
What impressed Catriona most was the inclusivity and empowering nature of the designs.
“I myself am not a size zero, but I feel so beautiful in what I’m wearing tonight. I think that’s the best thing about this collection: you can be romantic, feminine, and powerful all at once. Every design speaks for you, and that’s what Haydee Garcia has encapsulated for us in this collection,” she said.
The intimate runway presentation gathered selected guests from the fashion, media, and creative industries for an immersive and elegant showcase.
The launch marked another major milestone for Studio Haydee Garcia as the brand prepares to open its new home this May at the North Garden Villa of Proscenium at Rockwell in Makati, expanding its bespoke heritage into a more elevated and accessible luxury ready-to-wear experience.
“The vision behind Haydee Garcia Atelier has always been simple. I wanted to create a space where women can feel beautiful, confident, and celebrated through fashion. For me, it’s never just about making gowns. It’s about creating pieces that hold memories and emotions. I want every client to feel special the moment they wear a Haydee Garcia piece,” founders Haydee Garcia shared.
Meanwhile, Catriona revealed that she is currently focused on upcoming film projects, which she described as still being in their early stages, along with new music she is preparing to release.
As for pageant fans, many are now eagerly awaiting Bea Millan-Windorski’s preparations for Miss Universe this November, hopeful that she could bring home the Philippines’ fifth Miss Universe crown.
She speaks very well, she’s very statuesque, and I think she’s a great representative for the Philippines. If I were one of the judges, she would do really well. –Catriona Gray on Bea Millan-Windorski
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