MANILA – Talks of the cancellation of the 65th Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines circulated around social media a few months ago but the Miss Universe Organization, on Wednesday, has confirmed that the annual competition is happening in the country on January 2017.
Candidates from all over the world will be visiting various Philippine destinations including Vigan, Cebu, Baguio, Davao, with more regions to be announced, for the pre-pageant activities which will culminate in the coronation on January 30, 8:00-11:00 am, at the SM MOA Arena.
The 65th Miss Universe competition is funded entirely by private sectors: the LCS Holdings, Inc., Okada Manila, SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc., San Miguel Corporation, Jpark Island Resort and Waterworld, Cebu, and Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio.
“We worked tirelessly to make sure that the Philippines would not lose this bid. We realize that there’s no better time than now to host, especially since the reigning Miss Universe queen is, as you all know, our very own, Ms. Pia Wurtzbach,” said Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, Chairman, LCS Group.
According to Shawn McClain, VP for Business Development, Miss Universe Organization, the government won’t be spending anything for the pageant but is supported by the Department of Tourism.
Wilson Tieng, CEO & President of Solar Entertainment, the official local media partner of the 65th Miss Universe pageant, confirmed that the coronation will also be aired on selected free TV channels.
The Philippines first hosted the Miss Universe competition in 1974 and then again in 1994. The country also boasts of three Miss Universe winners: Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margie Moran in 1974, and the reigning queen, Pia Wurtzbach.
The Miss Universe Organization will be posting further announcements on www.65thmissuniverse.com and on facebook.com/MissUniverse65th.
