Miss Charm Philippines 2024 Cyrille Payumo has issued a public apology after receiving mixed reactions for her choice of attire during her final walk at the Miss Universe Pampanga pageant.
Payumo wore a gown designed by Mak Tumang, the same dress that Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray donned when she crowned her successor, Zozibini Tunzi. While some pageant fans saw it as a tribute to Gray’s historic win, others believed it overshadowed the significance of Catriona’s moment.
Following the online discussion, Payumo addressed the controversy on social media. She explained that Tumang himself sponsored her final walk and offered her the gown, which she felt honored to wear. However, she acknowledged the sentiments of those who were upset and clarified that her intention was to celebrate both her own journey and Tumang’s artistry, not to take away from Catriona’s legacy.
“I sincerely apologize if my decision caused any pain or offense. It was never my intention,” she wrote, adding that she is taking the experience as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Payumo won her national title in May 2023 during the Miss Universe Philippines coronation night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The competition also saw Chelsea Manalo crowned as Miss Universe Philippines 2024, with runners-up including Stacey Gabriel, Ahtisa Manalo, Tarah Valencia, Christi McGarry, and Alexie Mae Brooks.
