Friendswood woman first Filipina American to win Miss USA: 'Oh my God, it's an honor'

A Friendswood woman has the distinction of being the first Filipina American to be crowned Miss USA.

Houston CBS affiliate KHOU reported that R’Bonney Gabriel, who’s also the new Miss Texas USA, is vying for Miss Universe, which will take place in New Orleans early next year.

"Oh my God, it's an honor," the 28-year-old Gabriel said in an interview with local program “Houston Life.” "I'm getting messages on Instagram and just social media of Filipina girls and women telling me they're so excited, they're so happy."

KHOU reported that Gabriel, whose father is from the Philippines and mother a Beaumont native, secured the Miss USA title in Nevada on Monday.

She’s a 2018 graduate of the University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton and runs her own fashion label, R’Bonney Nola.

According to the station, Gabriel is just one of two Filipina Americans representing the Lone Star State in a beauty pageant.

North Texan Averie Bishop is a contestant in December’s Miss America pageant.

Gabriel understands what her latest feat means for young American women of Filipino descent.

"They're crying tears of joy because they are inspired to go after pageantry or something," she said on “Houston Life.” "Like I'm paving the way for them to just go after whatever they want no matter what it is. So it's an honor."

People reported that the fashion designer also serves as a sewing teacher at Houston-based nonprofit organization Magpies and Peacocks, which is over the moon over Gabriel’s achievements.

“We are beyond proud that our very own R'Bonney Nola just won Miss USA 2022!” Magpies and Peacocks shared on its social media platforms, according to People. "One of the sweetest, kindest and most giving people we know, this gorgeous young lady is so deserving of this crown and we are beyond proud to have her as a part of our sustainable fashion tribe. Our queen with the heart of gold.”