Miss Planet International postponed to January 2023 amid controversy

Miss Planet International has been rescheduled to January 2023, the organization announced on Facebook.

The coronation night was originally set for November 19 in Uganda. The rescheduled pageant in January will then be held in Cambodia.

“We regret to inform that the finals and preliminary competitions won't be held due to the host [organizers' failure] to comply and meet the requirements for the realization of the events,” the statement said.

“We would like to express our sincere apologies for all the inconvenience caused,” the organizers added.

Last week, rumors circulated online that candidates were withdrawing from the competition and were treated poorly. Several candidates called it a "scam."

The Philippines’ bet, Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol also withdrew from the pageant “[due] to uncertainties by the organizers.” She called it a "traumatic experience."

It was supposed to be her first international pageant, following her stint at Binibining Pilipinas where she placed first runner-up and bagged seven special awards.

Prior to her withdrawal, Herlene’s national costume failed to make it to Uganda in one piece, causing distress. —Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News