Is Miss Universe 2017 still in PH?
Concerned citizens and women leaders from Manila, have signed a petition urging the Miss Universe Organisation to withdraw from holding the coronation night of the international pageant in Philippines.
The petition letter started by Annie Serrano yesterday (October 10) on Facebook is a protest against President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent actions including the comments on women by the other elected officials.
As of this writing, the petition has already gathered 58 signatories.
In an official statement posted by DOT Undersecretary Kat de Castro on her Facebook account, the statement says that despite the new petition (circulating right now on Social Media) urging Miss Universe organizers not to hold the pageant in our country, Miss Universe still pick Philippines to host the prestigious event in January 2017.
DOT STATEMENT ON THE PETITION VS THE HOSTING OF MISS U IN PHL
The government’s decision to accept the offer of Miss Universe Organization to stage the spectacular pageant in the Philippines has gained an overwhelming public support, especially among Filipino women and their families.
Needless to say, this is such a special and proud occasion where we are presented with the golden opportunity to host the event in which the reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of Cagayan de Oro City would pass on the Crown to her successor.
In addition, the massive attendance of international media for the two-week extravaganza would be a big boost to the country’s tourism promotion program that will benefit local businesses and livelihood, as well as the travel and tour sector.
While the DOT gives due respect to such opinion as signified by a group of women leaders and concerned citizens, we assure everyone that we deem it a great honor to host the distinguished event that portrays the most beautiful and talented women with highest regard.
In this light, the DOT expresses its utmost gratitude to the Miss Universe Organization of giving us the great opportunity to treat the world to genuine Filipino hospitality.
