Miss Universe 2016 to include ‘women empowerment’ program

A "women empowerment program" is included in the lineup of pre-pageant activities for Miss Universe 2016, businessman and former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson revealed on Friday. 

In an interview with GMA News' News To Go, Singson acknowledged the criticism against beauty pageants, specifically that it objectifies women. 

"That's why we have a program to empower the women of the Philippines," he said.

Although scant in details, Singson explained that the Miss Universe Organization has added a one-night event for this purpose. 

Singson added that the negative comments will persist despite their best efforts, saying, "It's like politics, you cannot please anybody."

The Miss Universe Organization has been taking steps to address the issues being raised against pageants. Earlier this year, the swimsuit competition was removed from Miss Teen USA and was replaced with an "athletic wear" portion.

Miss Teen USA, a pageant owned by Miss Universe Organization, said on its website that "in a society that increasingly prioritizes feminism and equality, watching women parade across a stage in bikinis can feel outdated." —Aya Tantiangco/KG, GMA News