IN PHOTOS: Rabiya Mateo's Miss Universe 2020 journey
Philippine-bet Rabiya Mateo is all set to make the country proud as she represents the nation at the 69th Miss Universe pageant happening on May 13, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. Philippine Time.
The Iloilo-native recently flew to the United States to attend the different events and the beauty pageant's preliminary competition, aiming to take home the 5th Miss Universe crown.
But what are the chances that she will bring home the title?
Well, according to beauty queen maker and Miss Universe Philippines creative director Jonas Gaffud, Rabiya is a sure-fire “winner” at the competition.
In an interview before their flight, Gaffud reiterated that the beauty queen has been training consistently in the last few months to gear her for the stage.
He told the press, “Rabiya's training is the usual, like runway [walk], interview, make-up, fitness, speech, photoshoots, etc. But, we also focused on mental health. There is so much pressure online and among Filipino fans that some beauty queens have been subjected to in the past, and Rabiya is not exempted.
“So we remind her to be stronger.”
Jonas continued, “Rabiya can win Miss Universe because of her beauty, simplicity, and humility. We need to get that perfect aura for her stars to align on May 16.”
Take a look at her journey to the most coveted crown in the universe in this gallery:
Rabiya Mateo
For her departure outfit, Rabiya Mateo wore a beautiful barong made of pina fiber and embellished with pearls designed by Chino Christopherson and Marc Rancy. The look was paired with beautiful flared trousers with details on her left leg.
Departure
Rabiya departed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on April 10, 2021, while waving the Philippine flag.
Dream Team
Joining Rabiya is pageant guru Jonas Gaffud and the rest of the Miss Universe Philippines Team to ensure Rabiya is all set for the competition.
Selfie
Jonas Gaffud shares that he and Rabiya had decided to leave early for the competition to make sure that the beauty queen is well rested and that they can isolate themselves first before checking in at the Miss Universe hotel venue.
First out of the country trip
Jonas Gaffud also shared that this is the first time Rabiya is taking a trip out of the country, so she is very excited to see the adventure that awaits her upon landing.
Press
Upon her arrival, Rabiya had already met with the press, asking her what she aims to pursue while in the competition. The beauty queen wore an exquisite embroidered brown blazer dress to show her Filipino roots.
IG Live
A jet-lagged Rabiya Mateo looked effortlessly beautiful as she gives a quick update to her fans through Instagram Live.
Backless
For her first day, Rabiya wore a turquoise blue terno with backless detailing designed by Marlon Tuazon.
Pretty in Pink
Rabiya Mateo looked extra glam for her special shoot with the official skincare of the Miss Universe 2020 pageant. The dress was designed by 'Project Runway Philippines' runner-up Veejay Floresca.
Diana of Themyscira
Rabiya Mateo looked every inch of a fighter as she nailed this Wonder Woman-inspired look designed by Mara Chua.
Photoshoot ready
Filipino designer Marc Rancy created this ethereal blue draped gown for Rabiya during her photoshoot for the Miss Universe competition.
White
Mikee Andrei decked Rabiya with a timeless cocktail dress that is designed with lace appliques for that modern yet feminine look.
Philippine flag
Rabiya Mateo knows how to make a statement with her Philippine flag-inspired Filipiniana gown designed by Kirsten Regalado.
National costume
Rabiya Mateo confidently glided across the Miss Universe stage, wearing her Philippine flag-inspired costume. She donned red and blue wings and three stars to represent the colors and symbols of the country's flag.
Evening gown
Dubai-based Filipino designer Furne One created Rabiya Mateo's stunning evening gown, inspired by the "radiance of the Philippine sun."
