Miss U PH franchise still with Araneta Group

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

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

It read in full thus: “The Miss Universe Organization has had a very successful, decades long relationship with Stella and Jorge Araneta and Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. Stella is an icon in the pageant community and under her guidance, many young women have proudly represented the Philippines on the international stage, in addition to four amazing Filipinas who have gone on to bring home the Miss Universe crown.

“Through the country’s pageant system and its leadership, young women who have participated in Binibining Pilipinas have been afforded the opportunity to be the best they can be and lead ‘confidently beautiful’ lives;

“In recent years, The Miss Universe Organization has also had the opportunity to work with Governor Chavit Singson on a variety of projects, both in the Philippines and in other countries, including of course, the hugely successful 2016 Miss Universe pageant.

“Simply put, without the vision and support of LCS, and specifically, Governor Chavit Singson, the dream of hosting Miss Universe in the Philippines, would not have been a reality. Governor Chavit Singson and Richelle Singson Michael worked tirelessly on behalf of Filipinos everywhere, to make the Philippines the home of the Miss Universe 2016 event.

“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 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. We plan to continue to work with the Araneta Group on Binibining while seeking to modernize and grow the brand into more than a one day special and LCS has agreed to support us in our efforts to do so.

“Prior to the Final night 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.”