On the eve of the 71st Miss Universe Competition in New Orleans, Miss Philippines Celeste Cortesi revealed the big cut in the semifinals: from top 16 to top 5.
This was revealed by Celeste during an exclusive interview with Kapamiya anchor Dyan Castillejo on YouTube uploaded on Saturday, Jan. 14.
Asked if there was truth to the rumored big cut in the semis, Celeste smiled and told Dyan: "Yes! It's a big cut! That's why everybody is scared."
Following the announcement of the top 16 girls, the semifinalists will parade in swimsuit and evening gown.
"After that, it's gonna be top 5 and top 3. So that's a big cut," Celeste added. "So let's see what's gonna happen."
The grand finals of the 71st Miss Universe Competition will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana on Jan. 14 (Jan. 15 in Manila). On her fellow candidates in Miss Universe, Celeste said: "We all know that this is still a competition. But that doesn't stop us from wanting to be kind from each other and really uplift each other.
"I think that every single girl here is very nice and very approachable and I'm very happy because of that.
"We're here yes to compete but also t enjoy the moment and represent the country the best way we can," she added.
Celeste said that it has been her dream to become Miss Universe.
"I have my purpose and honestly I was given a second chance to represent the Philippines so I'm not gonna waste it," she also said.
Celeste also said that she will wear a different evening gown in the finals. "A little bit different with the color as well. We really to leave the best for last. My posing and walking will be a little bit different. I always want to have a strong walk and I really want to go on stage having fun without thinking of any techniques."
Eighty-four lovely women are competing for the title of Miss Universe 2022. Reigning Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu of India will crown her successor at the end of the worldwide broadcast of the prestigious pageant.
READ MORE: https://mb.com.ph/2023/01/05/71st-miss-universe-to-air-stream-live-on-multiple-abs-cbn-platforms/