Chavit Singson issues statement, after Miss Universe confirmed local franchise is staying with Bb. Pilipinas

Chavit Singson on Monday issued a statement after the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) confirmed the Philippine franchise of the beauty pageant was staying with Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Incorporated (BPCI).

READ: Miss Universe franchise stays with Bb. Pilipinas

"I am thankful and honored for the statement made by the Miss Universe Organization, recognizing my and the LCS Group’s contribution to the success of the organization and its various initiatives," began the former Ilocos governor.

"I am excited to work with the Araneta Group and all our partners in developing Miss Universe in the Philippines further," he added.

Miss Universe candidates, he said, are very much welcome in Vigan City.

Chavit ended his note, saying "The Miss Universe pageant has always been about the empowerment of women, of which I am always in full support of."

In their statement published on Sunday, MUO acknowledged the efforts of Chavit, saying "the group of Singson is supporting the efforts of MUO and the BPCI ‘in seeking to modernize and grow the brand into more than a one day special and LCS (Luis Chavit Singson) has agreed to support us in our efforts to do so’.”

Talks about the change of ownership of the local franchise swirled when newly crowned Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray flew home in Chavit’s private jet.

BPCI chair Stella Marquez-Araneta quickly squashed the rumors, but in January, Chavit insisted the Miss Universe franchise "was already with me." — LA, GMA News