'I was enjoying the moment:' Celeste Cortesi on the Miss Universe 2022 prelims and the upcoming coronation night

After her Darna moment at the national costume competition held on January 12, Celeste Cortesi is ready to soar higher.

Talking to Dyan Castillejo the morning after the prelims, Cortesi shared that she is very grateful to be part of the pageant.

"I was just very blessed and grateful, to be honest. I was really really happy. I was enjoying the moment," she told the TV personality.

Cortesi shared that she tried looking for her mom, Maria Luisa Rabimbi, and boyfriend, Mathew Custodio, from the crowd, but the venue was so packed.

"There were so many people. But I was looking for my mom, I was looking for my boyfriend. But I couldn't see anyone. But I could [hear]  the screams. It was crazy," she shared.

Cortesi added that she and the other delegates are doing more rehearsals in preparation for the coronation night on January 14 (January 15, Philippine time). She also said that she might "change up" her walk or posing, along with some hair changes.

"Let's see how it's gonna be. But I'm very excited because this is it," she exclaimed.

When asked what her message is for her Filipino fans, the Filipina-Italian beauty said she is very grateful for them.

"I just want to say thank you, guys. Like sometimes I do read [your comments] and you gave me so much love and support. And you know, yesterday, when I was walking on stage, I could hear you in the crowd. So thank you so much," Cortesi expressed.

Cortesi is among the 84 contestants vying for the Miss Universe 2022 crown.

The coronation night will be on January 14 (January 15, 9 a.m., Philippine time).