All of us Filipinos could only do was really raise the flag, especially knowing that Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray was in our midst.
In her triumphant return to the country last month, Catriona had a victorious parade, appearances on Kapamilya shows, and one glorious spectacle that truly celebrated her queendom: the “Raise Your Flag for Catriona Gray” homecoming concert at the Araneta Coliseum.
Kapamilya stars were present, including the TNT Boys, Morissette Amon, Bamboo, Jed Madela, Maymay Entrata, Boy Abunda, and Vice Ganda.
The world-class trio of Keifer Sanchez, Mackie Empuerto and Francis Concepcion, the TNT Boys, gave us an empowering performance of the song “Brave” by Sara Bareilles.
Morissette Amon gave a powerful performance of Andra Day’s inspirational song, “Rise Up”, which was tied to Catriona’s revelation of how being an independent girl at an early age molded her to become who she is now.
Jed Madela then gave a heartfelt rendition of Calum Scott’s “You Are The Reason”, along with Queen Cat’s narration about how being able to discover her purpose and passion led her to the crown.
The one and only King of Talk Boy Abunda who stood as the master of ceremonies, surprised everyone as he introduced the proud and loving parents of Catriona Gray.
The Unkabogable Star Vice Ganda brought out the funny side of Catriona by letting the crowned queen share her Miss Universe experience.
Distinguished guests and celebrities attended the event to hail Queen Cat in the tribute special, including past Philippine representatives to the Miss Universe pageant, such as the 2015 titlist Pia Wurtzbach, Rachel Peters, Maxine Medina, MJ Lastimosa, Ariella Arida, Shamcey Supsup, and Venus Raj.
Together with Binibinis Samantha Bernardo, Vickie Rushton, Michelle Gumabao, Jehza Huelar, Angelica Alita and Kapamilya star Maymay Entrata, the past Miss Universe queens of the Philippines walked the stage all clad in Catriona’s signature red for a Catriona Gray-inspired fashion show, under the symphony of Talahib Pilipino’s Music.
Beneficiaries and staff of Young Focus, a foundation dedicated to the empowerment of disadvantaged children through education that Catriona supports and advocates, also came to give their lovely tribute by giving a bunch of red roses to our beautiful and kind-hearted queen.
Bamboo serenaded the homecoming queen with his sweet rendition of the song titled “214.”
Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan and Kritiko gave us a stirring performance of the song “Raise Your Flag,” which was inspired by Catriona’s spontaneous and genuine answer during the Miss Universe 2018 pageant.
Throughout the concert, the audience in the jampacked Big Dome proudly cheered on Catriona as she beamed and waved onstage. For this, Queen Cat didn’t forget to express how grateful and thankful she is for all the support and love the whole country has given her.
Indeed, it’s all hail to the Queen!