Catriona Gray weighs in on Filipino representation in pageants

Days after male pageant titleholder Brandon Espiritu's controversial "halfies" remark sparked debate over Filipino representation in pageants, Catriona Gray weighed in on the issue, underscoring the importance of patriotism, character, and consistent actions when representing the country.

Through her Instagram broadcast channel on Thursday, June 11, the Filipino-Australian Miss Universe 2018 titleholder joined the discussion on what it means to represent the Philippines in pageants.

“Ang daming iba’t ibang klaseng Pinoy — mula sa iba’t ibang probinsya, halfsies, hanggang 2nd, 3rd, or 4th generation Filipinos — who are making an incredible impact in their industries and positively contributing to our nation. Sila ang mas deserving ng platform kaysa sa iba diyan," Gray said.

The 32-year old beauty queen also called for greater recognition of individuals whose patriotism extends beyond public appearances and titles.

“Let’s give a platform (pageants or otherwise) to people who truly deserve it. To those whose love for country extends beyond a momentary spotlight; those whose pagmamahal sa bayan is more than just lip service, but is reflected in their consistent actions, character, and values."

The discussion stemmed from comments made by Filipino-American pageant conntestant Brandon Espiritu, who drew backlash after saying that the Philippines wouldn't have a chance to succeed in pageants without “halfies” like him. The term “halfies” is commonly used to refer to mixed-race or mixed-blood Filipinos. Although he later deleted the comments, screenshots circulated online, fueling criticism and prompting some netizens to call for boycotts of brands linked to him and to unfollow associated social media accounts.

Espiritu, 32, represented the Philippines at the 2024 Mister Supranational pageant in Poland, finishing as second runner-up, while fellow Fil-Am pageant titleholder Jether Palomo competed at the 2025 Mister Global pageant, placing in the Top 11.

Palomo, who is of Filipino heritage and born in the US,  was also embroiled in the controversy after he stated that his allegiance lies with the US, further intensifying the discussion online. His remarks surfaced during an Instagram exchange connected to Espiritu’s comments.

Both Espiritu and Palomo later issued public apologies, acknowledging that their comments were inappropriate and disrespectful.

Aside from Gray, several other pageant personalities also spoke out against Espiritu’s statement and expressed pride in their Filipino identity, including Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados and Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 Winwyn Marquez, as well as male titleholders, Mister International 2025 Kirk Bondad and Mister Pilipinas 2026 Enzo Bonoan.