Celeste Cortesi poses for a butterfly-themed shoot, pens heartfelt message about her MUPH journey
Celeste Cortesi showed off her beauty in latest photo shoot, few days before she passes on her crown.
On Instagram, May 11, the reigning Miss Universe Philippines shared the stunning pictures from her butterfly-themed shoot taken by Andrei Suliek. In the photos, she is seen sporting a light blue latex breastplate and draped skirt ensemble by Just Bonita and a wig by Jufel Gomez. Mini origami butterflies were strategically placed all over her body, too.
In the caption, Celeste reminisced about her Miss Universe Philippines journey, which will soon end when her successor is named on May 13.
"We are a few days away from crowning the next Miss Universe Philippines. I can’t help but to reminisce the entire journey that contributed to who I am today," she started.
Celeste said she is thankful for the support everyone has given her as well as the golden opportunity to be the Philippines' representative in the international pageant.
"From all the struggles and hardships to the overwhelming support of everyone which I am very thankful for, and of course the once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the Philippines in an international stage,"
The Filipina-Italian beauty queen then likened her journey to the transformation of a butterfly, saying she is ready to soar to greater heights.
"I have always seen my journey as a beauty queen similar to the transformation of a butterfly. Like the butterfly’s metamorphosis, this entire experience has led me towards self-discovery and empowerment," Celeste wrote.
"This butterfly is ready to spread her wings and to take flight to greater heights."
Several celebrities, including fellow beauty queens, praised her on the comments section.
"Only queens know the weight of representing our country, MABUHAY KA!" wrote Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2020 Samantha Bernardo.
"MY QUEEEEEN," said MUPH candidate Michelle Dee.
"So proud of the woman you have become," actress Chie Filomeno said.
Celeste ended her Miss Universe journey after failing to enter the Top 16 of the 71st Miss Universe pageant held in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA last January 2023. The crown was given to USA's R'bonney Gabriel, a Filipina-American.
Celeste is set to crown her successor on Saturday, May 13 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
