CATBALOGAN, Samar — Kathreen Kaye Dacanay of Borongan was crowned Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Samar Islands during the coronation night on Friday at the M Grand Royale Resort.
Dacanay, a former Miss Pintados, bested 11 other candidates for the title.
"Honestly, I wasn't expecting to win, but at the same time, I was praying and hoping for the slightest chance that the universe would conspire, and I could still win the crown that night," Dacanay told The Manila Times in a brief interview on Saturday.
"When only two spots remained, I started tearing up and surrendering everything to God," she revealed.
She vowed to work on rigorous preparation, acknowledging that she still has a lot to learn and improve on.
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"I believe preparing for the nationals would require a holistic effort, and I'm excited to see what's in store for me," Dacanay enthused.
"I wake up each day feeling grateful to have such a strong support system that sees the beauty and potential in me," she added.
In addition to the crown, she received other corporate and special awards, including Miss Erase Skin Care, Miss Allure Studio Aesthetic Clinic, Miss JD Printing Services and Miss Mardon's Coffee Shop.
Dacanay will be joining MUPH-Tacloban Angela Cabel and MUPH-Basey Yoshabel Lebico in representing Eastern Visayas for the national contest.