Trans beauty queen Keylyn Trajano withdraws from Miss Universe Philippines-Pampanga 2025
Transgender beauty queen Keylyn Trajano is waving goodbye to the Miss Universe crown for now as she announced she is pulling out of the Miss Universe Philippines Pampanga competition.
In a lengthy statement on her social media pages, Trajano detailed her reasons for her withdrawal, but underscored that this does not mean that she is "quitting or backing down on a fight."
"This journey has been nothing short of incredible—filled with growth, inspiring connections, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams and ensuring my community can finally be seen, heard, and uplifted," she began.
"However, I’ve come to a point of understanding and acceptance: as much as my heart beats for this opportunity, my current commitments in business and corporate ventures demand my focus and presence," she added. "And knowing that the country still isn't ready for change, my stable avenues are things I cannot simply let go."
She went on to say that it would be "unfair" to herself and her responsibilities if she couldn't give it her full dedication even as a mere applicant.
However, Trajano highlighted that quitting the pageant is not a sign of weakness.
"This isn’t an end, but rather a redirection toward paths that align with my current purpose. I’ve always advocated for knowing when the time is now, and saying yes to bigger steps towards change. But maybe now isn’t the time and for me choosing to say 'No!' is still a win on its own," she said.
"Accepting defeat and letting go is the greatest sign of maturity because not everything is about fighting for the people or for what we think is right. My presence in itself, showing courage and bravery was already enough of a 'KEY' for me to make a mark in this industry," she added.
According to her, even if she were to be selected as Pampanga's representative for the MUPh competition, she would still back out and give the position to one of her fellow queens as she believes that they deserve it more.
"I know where I stand and I have a different fight than most and I accepted it from the get-go," she said.
"Just being seen through my capabilities in competing, joining and given a chance to hold the mic to voice out why I am here is enough, a privilege to start positive conversation and understanding amongst our society and community is enough for me, and that's that!" she explained.
Trajano then expressed her gratitude to her supporters as well as officials from her local government for valuing her advocacy.
"I will continue to cheer for the phenomenal women taking the stage and proudly representing our province," she assured.
"Here’s to growth, balance, and knowing when to take a graceful step back," she added. "This is not goodbye; I will always fight for the uplifted of my community, I hope my story of courage and bravery inspired many of you to start following your dreams and marching to the beat of your own drum."
MUPh Pampanga first announced Trajano as one of the 16 hopefuls to be the province's next representative at the national competition back in November. She is the first-ever trans woman to join the local pageant.
Miss Universe began allowing transgenders to join the prestigious event in 2013, according to Reuters. The first-ever transgender candidate to compete was Spain’s Angela Ponce back in 2018. In 2023, two transwomen joined the pageant, namely Rikkie Valerie Kollé of the Netherlands and Marina Machete of Portugal.
