One week after the 69th Miss Universe pageant, Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo updates fans in an Instagram post on Monday evening, May 24.
"I can’t believe it’s been one week already. For those who were asking how am I, you have nothing to worry. I’m enjoying my mini vacay here in the US. Just few more days and I’ll be working again," she captioned the post.
Mateo failed to bring the fifth Miss Universe crown for the Philippines but she managed to reached in the Top 21 semifinal round.
The pageant was won by Andrea Meza of Mexico.
In the same Instagram post, she shared the details of her final show gown made by Dubai-based Filipino designer Furne One Amato.
The evening gown was not showcased in the telecast since Mateo only competed in swimsuit as part of Top 21.
"This orange gown was my gift to Iloilo City. The details at the bottom is connected to Dinagyang festival which we celebrate every January. I was waiting for that moment, I’ve been trying to imagine myself walk in this gown if ever I enter the top 10. It didn’t happen but I am still blessed. It was heartbreaking at first but I realize every girl in the competition also made sacrifices and it’s all about destiny. That night wasn’t meant for me," she said.
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| Photo: Rabiya Mateo |
She also thanked the gown designer and her styling team.
"To Mama Furne Amato, I love you so much. You’ve been so kind to me in making me four gowns. You were so generous to help me in this journey.
"To Tito Albert (Andrada), you’ve been my prayer warrior. You are a family to me. I cant wait to be home and give you a big hug.
"To Rainier Dagala, Em Millan, Elaine Villapando, Rioliza Bravo Camantiguei, we fought this fight together. You guys were there when I don’t know what to do. We even ate on the floor together. Laugh to some bad jokes. Thank you for all the help! You guys are my angels.
"I failed to bring home the crown but I gained the hearts of millions of Filipinos, and that makes me a winner. Salamat Pilipinas! Lalaban parin tayo sa buhay!" she ended.
Rabiya is currently in Texas for vacation. According to Jonas Gaffud, she might return to the country in July.
While in Texas, she will have a series of meet-and-greet on June 10 (Houston) and June 12 (Dallas).
If you are around the area, check out the details below on how you can attend.
