MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Philippines 2018 Catriona Gray graced the international stage donning a head-turning national costume inspired by the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Miss Universe 2018 contestants on Monday paraded in their respective national costumes at the Nong Nooch International Convention Center in Pattaya, Thailand.
Gray’s ensemble was designed by Jearson Demavivas alongside Carlos Buendia Jr. and Jojo Bragais.
More than the costume’s intricate design, every detail from head to toe carries a meaning as explained by Buendia on Monday in an Instagram post.
Gray’s national costume with the theme “LUZVIMINDA: Magdiwang. Lumaban. Pagyamanin,” celebrated the distinct culture from the three major islands in the country, said Buendia.
Luzon was represented on the costume by a “parol” or Christmas lantern from the province of Pampanga with lyrics of the Philippine national anthem at the back: “At the back of the parol is a painting with inscription of the lyrics from Lupang Hinirang.”
“The paintings also highlighted victories, festivals, events, heroes and national icons with a style inspired by the works of Philippine National Artist Carlos “Botong” Francisco,” Buendia added.
Visayas, on the other hand, was represented through Gray’s bodysuit with “authentic tattoo designs” from patterns used by the Pintados.
Buendia said, “The tattoos represent an individual’s journey and a public testimony recounting acts of combat, bravery and strength that perfectly represents the courageous and resilient Filipino spirit.”
Lastly, Mindanao was represented in the costume through the headpiece and brass accessories from the province of South Cotabato.
The customized knee-high boots, meanwhile, was inspired by different indigenous textile patterns from southern Philippines namely “Inaul, Yakan, Maranao, B’laan, Bagobo, Tausug and T’nalak.”
Demavivas proudly shared the initial sketch of Gray’s national costume while also crediting Eric Quiwa, who was featured in Gray’s “This is the Philippines” video, for making the parol itself.
Meanwhile, Bragais was ecstatic to see their collaborative effort and expressed how proud he is of our country’s bet in the Miss Universe 2018.
“Finally seen the fruit of our collaborative efforts in this year’s National Costume Competition for Miss Universe. Super proud of @catriona_gray who slayed the runway! There’s no part of the costume that aint Filipino,” Bragais said.
Gray will try to win the Philippines’ fourth Miss Universe crown this December 17 in Bangkok, Thailand. /muf
WATCH: Catriona Gray boasts Philippines’ rich culture in new video