‘THANK YOU RABIYA!’
Rabiya Mateo’s hope to become the fifth Filipina to win the Miss Universe crown following the likes of Catriona Gray (2018), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margarita Moran (1973) and Gloria Diaz (1969), ended May 17, with Mexico’s Andrea Meza bagging the title.
Nonetheless, both Wurtzbach and Gray lauded her efforts.
Wurtzbach tweeted, “Rabiya we love you. Thank you for pouring your heart for the Philippines! We see your heart Queen...”
She added, “You made us so proud! We know you put your heart into this and we love you! Mabuhay ang Pinay!”
Gray, who was criticized earlier for seemingly not being supportive enough of Mateo, said, “Sending Rabiya all of our love! She made our country proud! 11 Year consecutive semi-streak Pilipinassss!”
Mateo bowed out of the competition, failing to make it to the Top Ten.
The curvy Ilongga thanked pageant fans for their love and support on social media.
She wrote, “This post is dedicated to all pageant fans all over the world. Salamat po. Terima kasih. Khob khun ka. Gracias. Thank you for celebrating and empowering us candidates. There may be some who are critical to us but still there’s millions of nice people who cheer for us. Sending love from Florida to the rest of the Universe!”
On Instagram, Miss Universe Philippine national director and Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup penned an appreciation post for Mateo.
She credited her for being “relentless, unyielding, and unstoppable” in the pursuit of the crown.
“You are a winner, not just in my eyes but in the hearts of millions of Filipinos around the world. Padayon! (Philippine flag emoji),” she added.
Dubai-based Filipino designer Furne One also expressed support to Mateo.
“We are still so proud of you @rabiyamateo like a phoenix, on your own pace and time, you will soar high,” he wrote in social media, posting a photo of Mateo wearing his Sarimanokinspired gown.
Celabrities Vice Ganda and Maja Salvador likewise shared their love for Mateo.
Ganda said, “Thank you Rabiya! We love you!”
Salvador on the other hand wrote, “Mahal ka namin Rabiya!”