Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach visits Senate, receives special citation

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Pia Universe paid a visit to the Senate for a courtesy call on Monday.

The visit is just one of Pia's activities today, which also includes a homecoming parade from Manila to Makati and at the Araneta Center in Quezon City.

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Senate President Franklin Drilon and Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara gave Pia a Citation of Excellence for winning the 64th Miss Universe pageant on Dec. 20, 2015.

"For a country that is very proud of the intelligence, talent and beauty of its women, this is indeed a great reason to celebrate," Drilon said in a statement.

"Like our boxing champ Manny Pacquiao, Pia unites our nation at a time when various issues divide us. Except that she comes in a prettier package."

Pia, for her part, said it's an honor "to be here today in your presence."

"It's really such an honor to be here today. As everybody knows, we've been waiting for this crown for a long time now. It's been 42 years, and finally we got it," she said in a speech during her Senate courtesy call.

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"I don't think a lot of people really know how big of deal Miss Universe is to the Philippines. It brings a lot of honor and a lot of pride to the country," Pia added.

Pia also went to the Manila City Hall for a courtesy city.

The reigning Miss Universe is in the country for a series of homecoming activities, which will be culminated by a homecoming show at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Thursday.