'I have nothing but peace for you': Miss Universe Bahrain Jess Deyani speaks up on mean comments left by Filipinos
Miss Universe's first candidate from Bahrain, Manar "Jess" Deyani, spoke up about the mean comments filling her IG feed, most of which are from Filipino users.
"I see so many bullies from these pictures," she wrote, posting screenshots of hateful remarks written in Filipino. "I am here to have a representation for all women regardless of shape, size, religion, or color."
The comments stemmed from a photo where the Bahrain beauty queen appeared to be frowning while posing alongside other Miss Universe delegates from Bolivia, Chile, and Czech Republic.
"Parang andaming nilabhan ni Bahrain," one user said.
"Miss Bahrain, hindi po bawal mag smile!" wrote another.
"Bahrain niyo pagod na," a user said.
Deyani faced the bullying with grace, saying she has nothing but love for the online trolls. "For the people who spread hate on social media - I have nothing but love for all of you. I hope that you find peace in your heart as I and my co-sisters unite to break the world's stereotypes of beauty."
Other Filipinos went to the beauty queen's aid and scolded their fellow countrymen about their mean comments. "Grabe kayo makalait kay Miss Bahrain, first time nila magkarron ng candidate sa Miss Universe...I-respeto naman sana natin."
Deyani highlighted the kind commenters, thanking them. "I wanna thank everyone who said inspirational things and for the kind messages! Love you, kabayans!"
She also defended how she looked in the photo, joking that she wasn't ready when it was taken.
Deyani is the first-ever candidate to compete in the Miss Universe pageant from Bahrain. She's also the shortest candidate in history at 5'1.
