Miss Universe PH reveals new format in selection of winners


Rabiya Mateo

The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) has revealed the new format in the selection of new batch of winners.

MUP National Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee made the announcement during the homecoming party for Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo who arrived in Manila after an unforgettable 80-day journey in the US.

Rabiya competed last May 16 at the Miss Universe 2020 pageant, where she landed in the Top 20. Immediately after the competition, Mateo embarked on a travel experience, visiting Filipino communities in 13 cities across the US.

The MUO went to great lengths in ensuring Rabiya's safety throughout her travels and strictly adhering to all the quarantine requirements. The phenomenal queen comes 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.

Shamcey also said that the theme for the 2021 edition of the pageant. “I am very happy to announce that this year’s theme for the MUPh 2021 Pageant, our theme, will be .... 'INSPIRE YOU'. 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.”

Photos by Ali Vicoy

The MUPh 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.

Rabiya and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr.

Through online voting through the MUPh App and the judges, field will be narrowed to a Top 75 and then a Top 50. These Top 50 delegates will then go 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 Aug. 31. 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 Sept. 25.