Miss Universe PH franchise remains with Araneta Group

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) finally put an end to speculations that the Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) franchise has been awarded to the group of Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis Chavit Singson.

In an official statement released to the Manila Bulletin, the MUO said that it will continue working with the Araneta Group on Binibining Pilipinas.

The MUO praised the leadership of Jorge Araneta, CEO, chairman and president of the Araneta Group; and his wife Stella Marquez Araneta, chair, Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), for the success of their national pageant for many years now.

The MUO also admitted that the group of Singson is supporting the efforts of MUO and the BPCI “in seeking to modernize and grow the brand into more than a one day special and LCS (Luis Chavit Singson) has agreed to support us in our efforts to do so.”

“In our continuing efforts to build and evolve the Miss Universe brand in the Philippines, the Miss Universe Organization has explored many options and opportunities to enhance Binibining Pilipinas and grow it into a dynamic, multi-faceted platform. While exploring these opportunities, we sought the input of all of our partners and will continue to do so.”

Previous reports alleged that the MUO has offered the local franchise to Singson.

The MUO said that before the finals of 2019 Bb. Pilipinas beauty contest in June, Governor Chavit Singson will welcome all of the Binibining contestants in historic Vigan, just as he did with the Miss Universe contestants in 2017.

“We look forward to the collaboration and innovation to bring an exciting future to Miss Universe Philippines and our beloved fans in the country,” the statement added.

The official statement was obtained by the Manila Bulletin after this writer e-mailed the MUO to comment on the issue surrounding the ownership of MUP franchise.