Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel, recently visited her family's old neighborhood in Malate, Manila.
On Instagram, the fashion designer recalled her fondest childhood memories.
"This is such a best feeling ever. I haven't been back in five years and when I won in January, the Philippines was one of the first places I wanted to go. And to be able to have my family here, as well, means a lot," said she in the clip showing the behind-the-scenes of her trip.
"I have so many good childhood memories of growing up here, visiting here in the summer. I remember when it would rain, it would pour and we would all go outside and play in the rain and it wouldn't even matter. I remember breakfast time, we would walk down the street, we would get pandesal, Spanish rolls, and the puto was always so good," she continued. "And one thing that I can't forget is we would just sit outside, whether it's morning time or night time - just play cards and hang out with each other. I love it here!"
In the caption, R'Bonney declared how community and family are "everything."
"Thank you @jkn18official @missuniverse for documenting my visit back to my Father’s childhood home street. Manila is home to where my parents got married and many childhood and family memories. This was one of the best days of my life."
According to R'Bonney, to have the opportunity to come back to her dad's place and celebrate with the community makes her heart "so happy."
She noted how they were able to hand out meals and provide school supplies for all the children.
"I loved seeing familiar faces," she reiterated.
"I spent many summer days playing on this street as a child. From walking to buy pandesal in the morning, playing in the rain when it flooded, watching the fiesta parade, and sweating in the heat playing tongits on the plastic tables," she maintained. "I remember the warmth and kindest of the neighbours. This street showed me how different my life was in America and taught me how to be grateful for everything I have."
R'Bonney pointed out: "To be able to visit again after everything and give back to a place so close to my heart is one of the biggest blessings of Miss Universe."
The beauty queen then capped it off expressing gratitude to Filipinos.
"Philippines thank you for all the love!!!," she said.
"What a dream come true to come back to the Philippines. I can only post 10 photos here, but I met so many genuine and kind people that made this trip so special. Thank you for allowing me to learn and connect more with my Filipino roots."