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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Controversy greets 2025 Miss Universe candidates in Thailand

Controversy greets 2025 Miss Universe candidates in Thailand

Published Nov 3, 2025 08:57 pm
Some of the candidates for the 2025 Miss Universe Competition pose upon arrival in Thailand on Nov. 3. (Images courtesy of Facebook)
Some of the candidates for the 2025 Miss Universe Competition pose upon arrival in Thailand on Nov. 3. (Images courtesy of Facebook)
A controversy is brewing at the 2025 Miss Universe Competition, currently underway in Thailand, following the official statement of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) that the special dinner and talk show previously announced by Miss Universe Thailand are unauthorized.
But on Monday, Nov. 3, the MUT said that "as the officially licensed host organization, we hold the rights to manage and execute such promotional activities within our territory."
On Nov. 2, the MUO reminded the public that "any event, activity, or online initiative not announced through our verified channels is unauthorized."
It all began when Nawat Itsaragrisil, the National Director of Miss Universe Thailand and Executive Director of the MUO, encouraged pageant fans to vote for the Top 10 candidates who would join him for the Special Dinner and Talk Show.
Nawat Itsaragrisil (2nd from left), the National Director of Miss Universe Thailand and Executive Director of the MUO, joins some of the candidates for the 74th Miss Universe pageant for a photo.
Nawat Itsaragrisil (2nd from left), the National Director of Miss Universe Thailand and Executive Director of the MUO, joins some of the candidates for the 74th Miss Universe pageant for a photo.
As of Nov. 3, the Philippines led the poll. Delegates from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Côte d'Ivoire, Chile, Venezuela, Cambodia, and Mexico were also on the list.
However, the MUO stated, "Any independent or third-party activity using the Miss Universe name, logo, marks, or related branding without prior written authorization is considered a violation of intellectual property rights and brand integrity."
It added that the MUO reserves all legal rights to take appropriate action against any individual, company or entity found to be using its intellectual property, trademarks or brand assets without permission, including but not limited to the Miss Universe name, logo, imagery or official event designations.
The full statements of the MUO and the MUT:
Schedule of activities
More than 120 candidates have arrived in Thailand for the 74th Miss Universe Competition on Nov. 21. As of Nov. 3, here is the schedule of activities of the pageant:
Nov. 2-3 – Arrival Day: Contestants receive a warm Thai welcome at Suvarnabhumi International Airport and begin their journey with fittings, photoshoots, and registration.
Nov. 4 – Welcome to Thailand Fashion Show: A spectacle at Thailand Fashion Week, officially introducing this year’s contestants.
Nov. 5-6 – Bangkok City Tour & Gala Dinner: Exploring Thailand’s vibrant capital before an elegant evening of dining and cultural exchange.
Nov. 9-12 – Phuket Island: Iconic paradise island, with unique charm, stunning beaches, delectable cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Witness the Peranakan Costume Fashion Show and Swimsuit Fashion Show in the vibrant city of Phuket.
Nov. 13-16 – Pattaya City Activities & Swimsuit Fashion Show: A stunning beachfront showcase at a world-class water park, celebrating confidence and grace.
Nov. 19 – National Costume Event at 12 pm, followed by the Preliminary Competition at 7 pm: The excitement builds as contestants compete in their national costumes, followed by the evening gown and swimsuit rounds.
Nov. 21 – The 74th Miss Universe Final live from Bangkok
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