By Katrina Gracia Consebido
Filipina beauty queen Celeste Cortesi showed off her ‘Darna’-inspired costume during Miss Universe 2022’s National Costume Competition on Thursday, Jan. 12.
The costume was made by designer Oliver Tolentino.
“Darna is the ultimate Filipina superhero and part of this country’s pop culture. She transformed from an ordinary woman with the help of a white stone. Standing for those who cannot defend themselves. Have no fear because Darna is here in the Philippines,” the program host explained.
“Embodying a cultural icon that symbolizes kindness, empathy, and empowerment, Miss Universe Philippines 2022 @celeste_cortesi presents Darna at the 71st Miss Universe National Costume Competition!,” The Miss Universe PH said in an Instagram post.
Meanwhile, ABS-CBN TV show “Mars Ravelo’s Darna” aired their support to Cortesi for showcasing the country’s iconic superheroine on the global stage.
“We are proud of Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi for championing Darna on the world stage through the 72st Miss Universe national costume competition,” in a statement.
“The Ravelo family extends their full support, gratitude, and excitement for the opportunity to show Darna to a global audience through our country’s official Miss Universe representative,” it added.
The grand coronation night of Miss Universe is on Jan. 14 at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center in Louisiana, United States. -gb
