Fil-Am Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel coming to the Philippines in May
Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel is coming to the Philippines soon for a special event.
The Filipino-American beauty queen made the announcement in the March 18 episode of the lifestyle show Houston Life, where she recalled going on trips to the country with her dad in her yesteryears.
When asked what it’s like to have people look up to her not just from the States but also the Philippines, she said, “I cannot believe it, it warms my heart.”
“I grew up going to the Philippines just as a child and just going on vacation there, and to actually be somewhat of an inspiration to the people in the Philippines now is amazing,” she explained.
“Actually, I will be visiting the Philippines soon—in May. We’re gonna have a huge event there as Miss Universe, so I’m really excited. So for all the Filipinos tuning in, I cannot wait to meet you,” R’Bonney revealed.
R’Bonney is turning a year older on March 20 and is set to celebrate her birthday with her nearest and dearest in Houston, Texas. She said she’s looking forward to having her favorite Filipino offerings like ensaymada and sinigang.
In an interview with entertainment reporter Nelson Canlas in February, R’Bonney let slip that she’s hoping to visit the country soon. “I’m good to go back, I would love to go back. I’m hoping we can make it happen this year,” she said at the time. Her last PH trip was in 2018.
In January, she made history as the first Filipino-American to bag the highly coveted crown at the Miss Universe 2022 pageant. She was followed by Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel and Miss Dominican Republic Andreína Martínez as first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.
While she represented the USA, she expressed her pride for being a half-Filipina and thanked her Pinoy fans for their support after her win.
"Mabuhay Philippines, mabuhay Filipino fans! Maraming maraming salamat sa lahat ng tulong ninyo. The support is everything, I feel it in my heart, I heard it in the room. It was an amazing energy. The Filipino blood is so strong, we are hardworking, we are fun, and we are determined, and I am so proud to be a half-Filipina,” she said.
See you soon, R’Bonney!