Fans were quick to react on the national costume of Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo.
The outfit inspired by the Philippine flag and with a touch of ‘Victoria Secret’s fashion style’ drew mixed reactions online.
Her costume was a creation of the late Filipino international designer Rocky Gathercole, who had once been based in the UAE, and jewelry designer Manny Halasan.
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“This outfit is inspired by the Philippine flag. The blue represents royalty, red stands for the courage and strength for an independent woman and yellow, the color of sun and stars, symbolizes freedom to choose whoever you want to be,” the host said while Rabiya walked on the stage.
In some of the photos shared by netizens, the outfit was revealed to have a sun headdress that completed the Philippine flag-inspired costume.
Miss Universe Philippines national director Shamcey Supsup explained the reasons as to why Rabiya did not wear the headgear.
“I brought the headpiece for Rabiya but unfortunately she couldn’t [wear it]. Nahuhulog. It was hard for her to wear it,” Shamcey said in an interview with entertainment reporter MJ Felipe.
“So we decided na kung saan siya mas komportable kasi mabigat na rin wings niya so we’re sad na hindi niya nasuot but still Rabiya was able to give us a powerful performance,” Shamcey added.
WATCH: Miss Universe Philippines National Director Shamcey Supsup explained the question of Pinoy fans – what happened to Rabiya’s headpiece? Shamcey answers straight to the point. pic.twitter.com/6CMoqHhWPO
— MJ Felipe (@mjfelipe) May 14, 2021
The entire ensemble reportedly weighs more than 11 kg.
Halasan for his part did not react further on the final outcome of the national costume.
But prior to the competition, he posted some jewelry that could have been the alternative for the headpiece.
