Makeup artist Justin Louise Soriano has spoken out in defense of Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, following allegations that the beauty queen stole “contacts and connections” to advance her career in the fashion industry.
Soriano, who previously worked with fashion icon Heart Evangelista before their professional fallout in 2023, addressed the issue in an Instagram post on October 12. He responded to accusations from an Instagram user claiming Wurtzbach used underhanded means to access valuable fashion contacts.
Soriano refuted the rumors, clarifying that Wurtzbach did not steal any contacts and was already well-established in the fashion world, having attended numerous fashion shows during her time as Miss Universe in 2015. “Pia never ever stole any contacts or whatever. Especially us, her glam team. We are only [her] glam team and we are not acquainted nor close to any PR officers (of fashion houses)” Soriano stated.
He went on to suggest that the allegations were part of a deliberate effort to tarnish Wurtzbach’s reputation. “That cheating thing is actually invented so people can draw hate towards Pia. It’s a good thing that when brands hear or read these, all the more that they show love to Pia. The universe is really so powerful. [You] throw hate? The hate goes back to you,” Soriano added.
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Soriano also highlighted Wurtzbach’s strong connections within the fashion industry, including her friendships with major figures like Imran Amed and supermodel Natalia Vodianova, whose husband is Dior executive Antoine Arnault. He questioned why Wurtzbach would need to “steal contacts” when she is already well-connected.
The makeup artist, referring to himself as a “Pia warrior,” expressed disappointment over the persistence of the rumors, which have been circulating for over a year. He urged people not to believe such claims, noting that the PR world operates differently and that contacts alone do not guarantee success in securing deals.
This marks the first time Soriano has publicly defended Wurtzbach against the allegations, which emerged after he and hairstylist Jeck Aguilar joined Wurtzbach’s glam team following their departure from Evangelista’s team. Their split from Evangelista was also marred by accusations of financial misconduct and black propaganda.
Wurtzbach recently made headlines for her appearances at Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025, where she graced the runway for L’Oreal and Michael Cinco. She was also named one of the top influencers at Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025, further solidifying her presence in the global fashion scene.
