Miss Philippines Rabiya Mateo has said that her daily preparations for Miss Universe pageant made her stronger every day.
On Instagram May 17, Rabiya said that she would be forever thankful for representing the Philippines in Miss Universe.
"In my heart, I did everything I can," she wrote on Instagram.
This is Rabiya's first official post on social media after the 69th Miss Universe Competition where she finished in Top 21.
Rabiya's full post:
"It was such a beautiful moment to represent you, Philippines. I am forever honored to be part of the legacy, of our history.
"In my heart, I did everything I can. I trained really hard to be physically fit. I would have sleepless nights trying to read articles to be updated. I made a lot of sacrifices people cant sometimes see. Early call time. Late night rest. Trying to be sane and motivated. It was a challenge but it made me so much stronger everyday.
"Salamat mga kababayan! Mahal ko kayo!"