An earlier interview of Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo about her being able to "make a man stay" has resurfaced after her boyfriend of seven years, Neil Salvacion, confirmed their split.
The 24-year-old beauty queen made the statement relating how Neil made her promise not to leave him even if she makes it big.
“We’ve been dating for six years. He’s my first boyfriend… We’ve been together since college... I can make a man stay,” she quipped.
Apparently, some of her critics are now using the statement against Rabiya.
But Neil replied to one of the comments, noting how "happiness is a choice."
He reiterated that they're both "happy" with their decision.
"Stop doing this kind of narrative. She doesn't need to apologize to anyone," he said.
Recall that former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemate André Brouillette was even dragged in the controversy.
After the pageant a few weeks ago, Rabiya decided to stay a bit longer in the US.
She said it’s her first time outside of the Philippines and she wants to make the most out of it.
And she seems like she enjoying her new journey, writing: "As you travel, you get to experience what life truly means."