What would Rabiya Mateo have done differently in the Miss Universe pageant?

Nearly two months after the Miss Universe pageant, Rabiya Mateo said there is one thing she would have wanted to do differently during the competition.

During Rabiya’s homecoming live streamed Wednesday on Miss Universe Philippines’ Facebook page, the Ilongga beauty queen candidly shared her honest thoughts.

“I wish I just deactivated my social media,” she said laughing, adding that this would also be her advice to the next Miss Universe Philippines.

“Pressure from the fans is something that’s going to be a reflection of your performance so sometimes, it’s better to block yourself and to maintain that inner peace,” she continued.

Rabiya added it is important to remind oneself that “social media is not the judge for the competition” and should not be the main point of focuse.

On the most important lesson she got from her Miss Universe experience, meanwhile, Rabiya said it would be believing in oneself, no matter what happens.

“Stick to your core,” she said. “There’s gonna be a lot of external noises, opinions about you, but once you know your purpose, you will find a reason for fighting.”

“Love yourself, believe in yourself, and enjoy the journey,” she added.

On Instagram, Rabiya clearly relished her homecoming, posting photos from the event.

Rabiya arrived back home in the Philippines earlier this month.

She flew to Florida to represent the country at the 69th Miss Universe pageant held in May. 

Days before the coronation night, Rabiya turned emotional during an Instagram live, saying sorry to those who were “disappointed” with her performance in the national costume competition.

Mexico’s Andrea Meza won the competition, while she exited the competition as part of the Top 21.

After the pageant, Rabiya went to do some solo traveling, visiting locations like Los Angeles, San Jose, Napa Valley, and New York City. — LA, GMA News