Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray aired her disappointment and growing mistrust in the Philippine government amid calls for transparency and accountability in the aftermath of Typhoons Tino and Uwan.
In a series of messages on her Instagram broadcast channel ‘Updates with MUning’ on Saturday, November 15, Gray questioned how public funds are being used and urged for direct assistance to affected communities.
“A majority of our taxes can go directly to aid our communities and kababayans in need of relief whilst we await justice for the misuse of public funds and for a system to be put in place that we can actually trust?!” she wrote.
Gray then asked her followers what steps are currently being taken to “break down and rebuild this obviously broken and self-serving system.”
“I don’t know about you guys, pero wala na talaga akong trust sa government natin. They continually prove to us how little care they give for the people,” she said. “So-called ‘public servants’ are living more like kings and we’re the servants.”
Despite her criticisms, Gray clarified that she remains hopeful about eventual reforms but does not believe the current leadership can deliver the “change we need and deserve.”
Gray’s statements come as several public figures and organizations highlight concerns over disaster response, environmental issues, and alleged misuse of public funds following back-to-back typhoons.
In a separate Instagram post earlier this week, Gray urged for “transparency and intention” in the use of public funds, saying they should safeguard the livelihood and safety of Filipinos. She also called for accountability for environmental degradation and discouraged the romanticization of Filipino “resilience.”
She acknowledged the ongoing work of organizations on the ground, including the Philippine Red Cross and Angat Buhay Foundation, and encouraged her followers to share information about communities still needing assistance.
Gray is among several beauty queens leading or endorsing relief initiatives: Gazini Ganados launched the Lounge Donation Drive for families in Liloan, Cebu; Krishnah Gravidez, reigning Miss World Asia, shared verified donation channels for typhoon victims, emphasizing calls for “justice,” “accountability,” and better systems; the Miss World Philippines, Mr. World Philippines, Miss Grand International Philippines, and ALV Talents Circuit groups launched Tabang Para sa Cebu, a donation campaign for affected families.
The Miss Universe Philippines Organization also issued a public advisory sharing emergency hotlines and urging bayanihan for communities hit by Typhoon Uwan.
