Nevertheless, the Ilongga lass’ Top 21 Miss Universe finish has been widely applauded as an impressive performance amid an ever-daunting competition of 74 candidates from around the world. @Hara_BAAA agreed, “Miss Philippines Rabiya Mateo looked like she was nervous in her last swim suit walk. Her predecessors were first to congratulate her with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach tweeting, “Rabiya you made us so proud! 11 Year consecutive semi-streak Pilipinassss;” with Miss Universe 2012 1st Runner-Up Janine Tugonon rounding up her fellow beauty queen’s sentiments when she wrote, “Mahal ka namin Rabiya! LessonsWith another Miss Universe pageant over and done with, leaving a mix of pride and disappointment across the nation, are there lessons to be learned from Rabiya Mateo’s journey as the country begins the search for its next best bet?

Source: Manila Times May 17, 2021 16:21 UTC