Malacañang on Monday congratulated Rabiya Mateo of Iloilo City for being crowned as Miss Universe Philippines 2020 during the pageant’s pre-taped coronation ceremonies on Sunday.
“Binabati po namin si Miss Iloilo Rabiya Mateo na tinanghal na Miss Universe Philippines kahapon (We congratulate Miss Iloilo Rabiya Mateo who was named Miss Universe Philippines yesterday),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace press briefing.
Roque, who was among the pageant’s panel of judges, expressed hope that Mateo’s reign would be “fruitful” and “productive”.
“Nag-align ang mga bituin para siya ang iproklamang pinakatatanging Pilipina sa buong Universe (The stars aligned so that she can be proclaimed as the most unique Filipino in the whole universe),” he added.
Mateo, who bested 45 other candidates, will represent the country in the next Miss Universe pageant.
Parañaque City’s Ysabella Ysmael was named first runner-up while Quezon City’s Michele Gumabao bagged second runner-up honors.
Bohol’s Pauline Amelinckx was named third runner-up while Kimberly Hakenson of Cavite was fourth runner up.
Besides Roque, among the judges were ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Yap, former Miss Universe Philippines winners Janine Tugonon and Ariella Arida, fashion director Jackie Aquino, Frontrow founder and CEO Sam Verzosa, IPG Mediabrands Philippines CEO Venus Navalta, Baguio first lady Arlene Magalong, Procter & Gamble group director for media Arthur Peña, and Raymond de los Santos.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2020 finals night was held on Sunday at the Baguio Country Club in Baguio City. (PNA)