Rabiya Mateo on joining the Miss Universe Pageant: 'In my heart, I did everything I can.'

The Philippines' bet Rabiya Mateo thanked Filipinos for their unflinching support throughout her Miss Universe campaign.

Rabiya made it to the Top 21 of the prestigious pageant but failed to advance to the Top 10.

In the end, Andrea Meza from Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2020.

iss Universe 2020 was held yesterday, May 17 (Philippine time), at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, United States.

“It was such a beautiful moment to represent you, Philippines. I am forever honored to be part of the legacy, of our history,” Rabiya wrote on Instagram less than 24 hours after the pageant's conclusion.

“In my heart, I did everything I can. I trained really hard to be physically fit. I would have sleepless nights trying to read articles to be updated.

“I made a lot of sacrifices people can't sometimes see. Early call time. Late night rest. Trying to be sane and motivated. It was a challenge but it made me so much stronger every day.”

“Salamat mga kababayan! Mahal ko kayo!”

Although she fell short in winning the crown, Rabiya earned praises from her fellow Filipino beauty queens for putting up a strong performance.

“Our beautiful @rabiyamateo. We're so proud of you! We know how much heart you put into this. And we love you for it. I can't wait to see all the amazing things you'll do when you come back home. Your future's as bright as the sun. You are our queen!” wrote Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach on Instagram.

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, meanwhile, took to Twitter to extend her support to Rabiya.

“She made our country proud! 11-year consecutive semi-streak Pilipinassss,” Catriona wrote.

Miss Universe Philippines Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee was with Rabiya since the start of her journey and couldn't be prouder of the Ilongga beauty queen.

“Set goals not just for the outcome itself, but for who you get to become in the process,” wrote Shamcey, who represented the Philippines in Miss Universe 2011 in São Paulo, Brazil. She finished 3rd runner-up.

“You have shown us what it means to be relentless, unyielding and unstoppable in the pursuit of your dreams.

“Despite the setbacks, critics and failures, you continued to wear the Philippine sash with pride and love. And for that, you are a winner, not just in my eyes but in the hearts of millions of Filipinos around the world. Padayon!”

Take a look at Rabiya's stunning looks at the recent 69th Miss Universe pageant: