Chavit Singson in talks to buy Miss Universe Organization
Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson confirmed that he is in talks to buy the Miss Universe Organization.
In a press conference on Dec. 22, Singson told reporters that he would meet with former Miss Universe Organization president Paula Shugart and Shawn McClain.
This comes after the businessman said in an exclusive GMA Lifestyle interview that he was interested in the global pageant.
Singson shared that the pageant's issues were among the factors that led to his consideration.
"Kasi nagka-problema 'yung Thailand. Binili nila, 'di 'yata nakabayad. Sa Mexico, nasira din 'yung last na pa-contest nila, so sinabi ko I'm interested to buy. They'll be arriving here next month [after] the holidays," he said, according to a video posted by News5's Mj Marfori.
He added that he's ready to purchase the pageant "if the price is right."
"Kukunin namin para pagandahin ang Pilipinas, hindi para kumita. Maski malugi kami, basta maganda, okay lang," Singson continued.
No figures have been discussed yet, according to the businessman.
Controversies in the 74th Miss Universe began during pre-pageant activities when eventual winner, Mexico's Fatima Bosch, walked out after MU Thailand's national director reportedly called her "dumb" for not following through with an obligation of the competition. Several other beauty queens walked out as well.
After the pageant on Nov. 21, the competition faced rigging allegations, after a judge who reportedly resigned claimed that Bosch's win was pre-determined. MUO president Raul Rocha has consistently denied and shrugged off issues.
The Miss Universe franchise was reportedly offered to Singson in 2023, but he declined, leading to Thai billionaire Anne Jakapong Jakrajutajip's JKN Global Group obtaining it. Jakrajutatip has since resigned as CEO and was replaced by Mario Bucaro, who also recently left the post.
Amid the controversy, Rocha said that he's mulling selling the franchise.
"I'm looking for someone to pass it on to," he said in an interview with Mexican journalist Adela Micha on Nov. 25, referring to MUO. "This is like a test, a relay race. Who do I pass the baton to?"
