https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJG_2drGkGc

Malacañang on Monday expressed elation at Pia Wurtzbach win as Miss Universe.

“Today, the whole country unites in celebration over Ms. Pia Wurtzbach’s coronation as Miss Universe in the 2015 pageant in Las Vegas, USA,” Presidential Edwin Lacierda said in a statement.

“We congratulate her for this success as the third Miss Universe of the Philippines, following in the footsteps of Ms. Gloria Diaz and Ms. Margie Moran-Floirendo,” he added.

“Throughout her journey, Ms. Wurtzbach showcased to the world the characteristic beauty, intelligence, and elegance for which Filipinas are renowned,” Lacierda said.

The Secretary pointed out that Wurtzbach showed “tremendous poise and control” and “tremendous graciousness” after the host mistakenly announced Ariadna Gutierrez of Colombia as Miss Universe.

“The tremendous support our countrymen have given Ms. Wurtzbach, from her Binibining Pilipinas title to the weeks leading up to the pageant, helped propel her to become a pageant favorite, and eventually led to her winning,” he explained.

READ: PH is an early favorite in Miss Universe pageant

Lacierda said Wurtzbach is not only “a tremendous source of pride for our people, but also holds up the banner of our women and of our country—as a true representative of what the Filipina can achieve.”

“Indeed, this triumph is the result not only of her beauty but also of her passion for positive change, as one who is confidently beautiful with the heart,” he said.

It has been 42 years since the Philippines last won the Miss Universe crown.

Wurtzbach has been said to be a strong contender for the crown.

The beauty queen was once romantically linked to President Benigno Aquino III. CDG