Victoria Vincent turns down offer to become Miss Universe New Zealand: 'I am a Filipina'

Victoria Velasquez Vincent revealed that she turned down an offer to become the Miss Universe New Zealand 2021.

Sharing a photo of herself in a black Filipiniana on Instagram, the beauty queen from Cavite said she received the offer shortly after the Miss Universe Philippines coronation night.

Accepting the title would allow her to compete in the Miss Universe 2021 pageant in December, but Victoria had other plans for herself.

"After a week of contemplation, countless discussions with my family, friends and team, I eventually came to the decision to politely decline the offer," she said.

"So many people will say I'm crazy for turning down this opportunity, but I had to choose what I know in my heart was the right thing to do," she added.

"My heart is, and always will be here to serve the Philippines. Some may say I'm not Filipina enough, and that's ok. I know who I am. I know what I stand for. I am a Filipina."

Before ending her post, Victoria thanked Miss Universe New Zealand for their kindness and for seeing her as a great fit for their crown.

"I am endlessly grateful that you had faith in me and offered me the opportunity of a lifetime," she said.

Victoria also took the time to express thanks to the Miss Universe Philippines organization for being supportive of her "regardless of what I decided to do."

"I am so excited to see what the future holds for us, Philippines," she said.

Victoria was hailed as the Miss Universe Philippines Charity last September. Beatrice Luigi Gomez of Cebu City, meanwhile, won the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 crown.

—Franchesca Viernes/MGP, GMA News