Pia, Steve exchange emotional ‘thank you’s’

MANILA, Philippines – “Thank you for making me the most popular Miss Universe,” Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who is about to pass on her crown this morning, told show host Steve Harvey, who then replied: “I want to thank you for making me the most famous host of Miss Universe!”

After four-time Grammy hip hop artist Flo Rida opened the show with his party anthems such as “Ayer” and “Low”, the 86 candidates were roll called, followed with a replay of the scenes of last year’s coronation night blues, when Harvey mixed up the winners. The replay, he said, was not his idea.

“I’m paying the price of my mistake,” he assured, adding that the experience taught him to keep on moving forward.

“Over the past year, I needed a little surgery. I had a little stuff done in my eyes, so we can get it right this year,” Steve further quipped, sending the audience more on a laugh trip. He described Filipinos as “one of the greatest audiences in Miss Universe history.”

According to him, the new Miss Universe’s life will change in an instant, just like Pia, who said that her life as Miss Universe really expected her expectations as it opened a lot of doors for her. For the first time, she also confirmed that she has signed up with modeling firm IMG.

“It’s about time we put the Philippines in the world stage because we have so much talent and beauty to offer!” she remarked.