The Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Organization has appealed to pageant fans to focus on celebrating this year’s Miss Universe delegates instead of spreading negativity amid recent controversies within the global pageant community.
In a statement posted on Instagram, MUPH urged supporters to respond with empathy and optimism.
“While recent incidents have stirred strong emotions, responding with negativity or calls for cancellation only divides our community. We encourage understanding and positivity to uplift the women involved and strengthen the pageant,” the group said.
MUPH commended Miss Universe Organization (MUO) President Raul Rocha for taking swift action to address the issue involving Miss Universe Thailand National Director Nawat Itsaragrisil, who was called out for disrespecting Miss Universe Mexico Fatima Bosch.
Rocha has since restricted Nawat’s participation in Miss Universe events, citing a breach of trust under his leadership. Nawat later issued a public apology.
The MUO also criticized Miss Universe Thailand for promoting an unauthorized “Special Dinner & Talk Show” event that encouraged unofficial voting on social media.
MUPH emphasized that the pageant should remain a space for “compassion, education, and inclusion,” denouncing racial stereotyping and divisive remarks.
“Pageantry has the power to inspire, transform, and unite. Instead of toxicity, let us choose dialogue, understanding, and progress,” it said.
The Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo will represent the country in the upcoming Miss Universe 2025 coronation night on November 21 in Thailand, as she aims to bring home the nation’s fifth Miss Universe crown.