(UPDATE) Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray on Monday endorsed the tandem of Vice President Leni Robredo and Sen. Kiko Pangilinan for the May 9 elections.
Gray cited Robredo's "actual existing programs" to uplift the poor and Pangilinan's agriculture advocacy in supporting their candidacies for president and vice president, respectively.
"My vote for vice president is Kiko Pangilinan and my choice for president is Leni Robredo," the Philippines' fourth Miss Universe queen said in a YouTube broadcast.
She cited Pangilinan's service in government and advocacy for the agricultural sector while highlighting Robredo's experience as volunteer lawyer for the masses and experience as congresswoman and vice president as reasons for her choice.
"The pandemic was such a huge indicator of the capabilities of those in leadership and I believe that one of the most competent responses during the global pandemic was that under the stewardship of her Office of the Vice President."
"Of all the candidates, she's the only one who gives me hope for change for the future that I wish to see for my country."
Gray said she reached the decision after considering several factors such as qualifications, the history of the candidate, service, platforms, and values.
She said she respects those whose vote differ from hers, as she called on others to do their research as "there's still time" to make an informed decision.
"At the end of the day, I believe no matter who your vote stands with, each and everyone of us, every Filipino wants the same thing: a better future, a cleaner government, better and equal opportunities and better quality and security of life for all."
"Your vote is your own and no one else's, and I encourage you to align wth a candidate that you feel is the best for the Philippines. There is power in a single vote. Never allow anyone to make you believe otherwise," she said.
Gray's endorsement comes after several celebrities endorsed Robredo last week such as fellow beauty queen, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, actor Piolo Pascual and TV host Anne Curtis.
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