Just before Rabiya crowns her successor, she has yet proved to us again that just like any other person, beauty queens may fall, but it takes true courage to stand up again!
During her final walk as the reigning Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Grand Coronation Night, she had lost her balance on stage and fell on to her knees, but quickly regained poise. Brava! Once she was fully recovered, she flashed a smile and said, “once you fall, you have to stand up.” This has caught the attention of the many netizens and was highly praised for continuing to show grace and confidence despite what happened.
During the brief interview, Mateo spoke about her Miss Universe Philippines reign, specifically during the pandemic, and expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her journey. She had thanked her parents and supporters for believing in her in a pre-recorded farewell speech while taking on her final walk. “Everything is possible as long as we put our hearts and minds into it,” she said. “I want to be remembered as somebody who gave her everything to make the Filipinos proud. I am Rabiya Matteo, Miss Universe Philippines 2020.”
Later on, Rabiya donned a second gown for the coronation proper in an intricate white gown embellished with silver jewels and crystals, looking absolutely ethereal and regal as ever. Our newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2021, Beatrice Luigi Gomez will take on the universal stage as she competes for Miss Universe 2021 in Israel in December.
