While the universe lay at her feet, coming home to the Philippines is never complete for reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach without a trip to the country’s number one fastfood chain.
On her second trip home since winning the much-coveted crown, the Miss Universe did not only drop by Jollibee, she also helped spread joy to 20 kids from an orphanage who were invited to a special Jollibee lunch party.
The Jollibee Buendia-Bautista branch, on the border of the cities of Makati and Pasay, quickly turned into a playground for four- to eight-year-old kids who – like Pia and her entourage – were served with a filling meal of two-piece Chickenjoy, chocolate sundae, and Peach Mango Pie. They were also treated to a special dance number by the Jollibee and Friends mascots.
Pia earlier revealed in a Buzzfeed Philippines interview that she’s a Jollibee fan, with the Chickenjoy as her favorite.
During the short program, Pia also imparted some life-lessons to the kids during the simple program. “Importante na lagi tayong maging magalang sa mga nakakatanda sa atin, mag-aaral ng mabuti, at parating magdasal, lalo na bago kumain (It is important that we are respectful to our elders, study well, and always pray, especially before meals),” said Pia, addressing the children.
A symbol of hope and perseverance for Filipinos, Pia joined the local Binibining Pilipinas three times before winning the crown to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant. Her victory ended a 63-year drought since the country last won the Miss Universe crown and brought jubilation among Filipinos here and abroad.
As a special gift to the kids, Pia distributed Jollibee toys and gamely posed for photos with them.