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The first-ever candidate to wear the Miss Universe Philippines “Filipina” crown Rabiya Mateo graced the morning talk show Unang Hirit on Monday, October 26, to talk about her win.

In the interview with the shows' hosts Suzi Abrera and Lyn Ching, the ecstatic Rabiya shared that she already feels the pressure as the new Miss Universe Philippines.

Image Source: Miss Universe Philippines (FB)

“To start with, actually hindi pa talaga siya nagsi-sink in na nanalo na talaga ako ng first-ever Miss Universe Philippines na title.

“However, 'yung nararamdaman ko po ngayon is mixed of emotions. Masaya na kinakabahan. Medyo pressured din because I want to continue the Philippine legacy sa international stage and dati pangarap lang 'to and nangyari na siya,” she said.

Suzi asked Rabiya what could have been her advantage over the 40 candidates who vied for the coveted crown.

According to her, it's the upside of being an “underdog.”

“As of the moment, I feel na ang dami-daming tao na 'yung nagsu-support sa akin even though I started as the underdog kasi dati hindi naman ako nakakapasok sa mga prediction list ng mga mananalo.

“And then nung papalit na ng papalit 'yung competition, people are starting to recognize me, and they're starting to recall my name.

“So, I feel like I was able to peak at the right time, and that has been my advantage,” she said.

The 23-year-old beauty queen also considers the fact that being a newbie in the pageant scene has ignited her desire to reach the goal.

“Of course because I'm a fresh face, siguro people are not expecting too much. Because of that I was able to give my best and 'yon na-impress 'yung mga judge during the coronation night,” she added.

Iloilo City's bet bested more than 40 candidates to win the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 “Filipina” crown.

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