Santos said, “I am delighted to join my fellow Filipinos in congratulating Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach on winning the Miss Universe 2015 pageant and making my kababayans proud around the world.”
Santos commended Pia for being a story of hard work and perseverance. “Pia’s success is one of dedication and determination—she held on to her dreams, worked hard, and along the way inspired people to keep believing in themselves. A Star Magic alumna, Pia is a true example of a Filipina who is ‘confidently beautiful with a heart.’”
Manahan, meanwhile, praised Pia for making good on her promise. “Four years ago, Pia told Star Magic that she would one day be Miss Universe. Today it looked like it was not meant to be. But then it was magic time in Vegas, and she made good on her promise. Hats off to you, Pia! It was really meant to be.”