Proud Filipina-American R’Bonney Gabriel of the United States of America was hailed as the 71st Miss Universe during the coronation night held on Sunday, January 15 (Manila time) held in New Orleans Louisiana.

She bested 82 other contenders, with Miss Dominican Republic Andreina Martinez as the 2nd runner-up and Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel as the 1st runner-up. The 28-year-old Houston-native who works as a model, fashion designer, and sewing instructor was seemingly in utter disbelief when hosts Olivia Culpo and Jeannie Mai Jenkins announced that she’s the grand winner.

Her proud Filipino dad, Mr. Remigio Bon Gabriel, who was among those who watched live, wasn’t able to hide his pride and joy for his daughter as he flashed his gleaming smile and brandished the American flag.

After Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Sandhu passed on the crown to her and she took her first moments as the newest Miss Universe, her fellow candidates rushed to her to congratulate her and give her their warm embraces.

R’Bonney is the ninth representative of USA to take home the Miss Universe crown, exactly a decade since Olivia Culpo, who coincidentally was one of the main hosts of this year’s edition, was named Miss Universe 2012.