Rabiya Mateo’s mom says daughter did not undergo plastic surgery

DUBAI—Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo’s mother has come to her daughter’s defense regarding recent insinuations that the beauty titlist had a nose job.

“Wala namang retoke si Rabiya,” said Christine Mateo, 54, in an exclusive interview with GMA News Online.

“Pilit ng pilit kasi. Tanong ng tanong ang iba. What’s the big deal? Ang alam ko ’pag may problema sa pimples, punta kay doc; ’pag sa mata, lagyan ng eye makeup; ’pag sa ilong, contour or kay doc ... you call that enhancement. Alam naman nila iyan,” said Christine, breaking her silence.

The beauty queen’s mom said she too was “an ugly duckling during my younger days.”

“But, I am a happy person and I have improved myself. Unhappy people evaluate and judge others. My children are the most beautiful gift given to me by God, regardless. What’s important is, and I’m sure lots would agree with me saying this, sana all have a lovely face and a beautiful soul.”

Shortly after she won Miss Universe Philippines, a high school yearbook photo of Rabiya resurfaced online, which showed her looking different from how she looked now.

Following this, some quarters insinuated Rabiya may have undergone a nose lift.

Reacting to this, the beauty titlist took to Instagram and said: “This is me 11 years ago. I still didn’t have my braces. I don’t (know) how to put on make-up. I’m not aware of what angle flatters me most, but that was still me.

“A lot of things happened in that period of time. I grew up and has become more mature. I was able to invest in myself and practice self-love. If there would be one thing that I want other people to know about me is that I am beautiful then and now. The only thing different is that now, I know better.”

She also hit back on her detractors, saying: “Stop calling anyone ugly. If that’s how you see things, maybe then it’s your soul that needs surgery.” – RC/LA, GMA News