Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo extremely happy to be back home

By Celso De Guzman Caparas 

Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo was welcomed home by the Miss Universe Philippines Organization after an unforgettable and fruitful 80-day journey in the US during the Homecomg Presscon held on July 14.

   She competed last May 16 at the Miss Universe 2020 pageant held in Hollywood, Florida where she landed in the Top 20. 

 Immediately after the competition, Mateo embarked on a travel experience visiting Filipino communities in thirteen cities across the US.

  The Miss Universe Philippines Organization went to great lengths in ensuring Mateo’s safety throughout her travels and strictly adhering to all of the quarantine requirements. 

   The phenomenal queen is extremely happy to be back home with a renewed spirit, a fulfilled heart and an even greater appreciation for Filipino pride. 

   Since her coronation, she has continued to become an inspiration to so many Filipinos here and abroad. 

   Her phenomenal efforts and effect on people have become the starting point of this year’s theme. 

   Miss Universe Philippines National Director, Shamcey Supsup Lee, announced the theme for the 2021 edition at the event. 

   She said, “I am very happy to announce that this year’s theme for the MUPh 2021 Pageant, our theme will be …. “INSPIRE YOU.” 

Photos by Celso De Guzman Caparas

 A Miss Universe Philippines is a phenomenal woman because she has the ability to inspire others. 

   This year, the three pillars are Roots, Transformations and Charity.

   Inspired by your Roots. The MUPh Associated Partners Program ensures that as many cities
and provinces throughout our country are well represented. Join us as we take a deep dive into the interesting and moving parts of our culture revealed through the eyes of our contestants.

   Inspiring Transformations. With the world-renowned experience of the key members of the Miss Universe Philippines board in bringing out the best in a Filipina, the goal is for them to find their unique best self that should also move other people to seek their best selves.

   Lastly, inspiring charity. It doesn’t matter whether it is big or small. Doing something good that can be sustainable should also inspire other people to do the same.

   The Miss Universe Philippines 2021 screening format was also announced at the event. 

   It is a fresh dynamic approach responsive to today’s needs. 

   The MUPh decided on this format to
allow greater participation from all over this Philippines. 

  By doing virtual screenings at the
beginning, the delegates do not have to be in Manila and incur lots of unnecessary travel
expenses.

   From the hundreds of applicants, the Top 100 Delegates will be revealed on July 19, 2021.

   They become official MUPh delegates who will undergo a series of virtual challenges in the
following weeks.

   Through online voting, the MUPh App and the judges, the field will be narrowed to to a Top 75 and then a Top 50. 

   These Top 50 delegates will then travel to Manila for a Live Interview Challenge with the Miss Universe Philippines board of judges. 

   Ultimately, a Top 30 will be chosen and announced on August 31, 2021.

   Also present at the live press conference held at the Hilton Manila, Resorts World Manila were MUPh Creative Director Jonas Gaffud and MUPh Design Council Head Albert Andrada. 

   The event was hosted by MUPh Director of Communications Voltaire Tayag. 

   Sponsors at the event were Frontrow, Cetaphil, Creamsilk, Dr. Coco and Gary Dacanay Weddings and Events.

   The Miss Universe Philippines Live Coronation night will be on September 25, 2021.