LOOK: All of Rabiya Mateo’s striking looks at the 69th Miss Universe competition
Rabiya Mateo wore stunning ensembles on the Miss Universe stage that left many in the audience in awe.
The beauty queen, whose advocacy is centered on education, ended her journey to the Philippines’ fifth crown after failing to make it to the Top 10 of the 69th edition of the pageant. Here’s a quick round-up of her stunning looks for the prestigious tilt, which took place today, May 17, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, United States.
For the national costume competition, she wore a Philippine flag-inspired creation by the late Rocky Gathercole, which was finished by the design team headed by Albert Andrada. The outfit featured red and blue colors as well as three yellow stars.
She also sparkled in a low-cut blue Sherri Hill dress at the preliminaries—the same outfit she rocked at her introduction on the coronation night itself.
Rabiya easily put many in a summer state of mind as she sizzled in a bright yellow bikini by Ema Savahl Couture and high heels by Jojo Bragais. A cape also made her look subtle yet sexy in the swimsuit competition.
At the evening gown round of the preliminaries, the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 titleholder shone in a Furne One creation. The yellow number was decked out in beads, which made her morena beauty stand out.
If she entered the Top 5, she would have worn a Sarimanok-inspired masterpiece, also by Furne One. “The mythical bird of the Marano people that originated from MINDANAO, an Island south of the Philippines, symbolizes good fortune,” the designer explained in an Instagram post.
The highly anticipated event, hosted by actor Mario Lopez and Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo, took place on Monday, May 17 in Hollywood, Florida.
Andrea Meza of Mexico has been named Miss Universe, followed by Julia Gama of Brazil (first runner-up), Janick Maceta of Peru (second runner-up), Adline Castelino of India (third runner-up), and Kimberly Jimenez of Dominican Republic (fourth runner-up).
Photo credit: IMG Universe LLC/BENJAMIN ASKINAS