The national costume competition for Miss Universe 2020 was aired today, and Philippine representative Rabiya Mateo wore an ensemble inspired by the PH flag! Rabiya said the wings even made her feel like a Victoria's Secret angel. The color blue symbolizes royalty while red is for "the courage and strength of an independent woman." The color yellow is for freedom, "to choose whoever you want to be!"
What happened to Rabiya Mateo's headpiece?
Filipino audiences couldn't help but notice that compared to images of Rabiya's costume that circulated on social media, the one she wore was missing a key element: her headpiece, which Twitter peeps say was supposed to be the "sun" in her flag-inspired costume.
In an interview with MJ Felipe, Miss Universe PH National Director Shamcey Supsup revealed that the headpiece kept falling off, and that's why they decided to go with what would make Rabiya more comfortable. Shamcey added: "Mabigat na rin yung wings niya in the first place. We're so sad na hindi nasuot, but still, Rabiya was able to give us a powerful performance." Fans also rallied behind Rabiya, saying that with or without the headpiece, she was truly a *kween*!
The Miss Universe coronation night will be aired in the Philippines at 8 a.m. on Monday, May 17. Here's a quick guide on where and *how* you can stream it (you know you want to!).
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