Miss Universe Philippines releases statement after 2 candidates withdraw due to COVID-19

The Miss Universe Philippines Organization (MUPO) on Saturday assured that the health and safety of the pageant's candidates is its top priority after some bets withdrew from the competition due to COVID-19-related concerns.

"The Miss Universe Philippines Organization’s top priority continues to be the health and safety of all our candidates," it said in a statement released on Saturday. "While it is unfortunate and heartbreaking to see some of our candidates leave the competition, we thank them for being a part of the Miss Universe Philippines family."

"We salute their bravery and courage as they go through this difficult time and rest assured, we will continue to provide all of the help and support they need," it added.

Assuring the public that they follow the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), the organization also said that it has partnered with St. Luke's Medical Center to conduct swab tests and provide the "best care and treatment needed" should any test positive with COVID-19.

MUPO also said it has been coordinating with the officials of Baguio City, where the coronation night will be held.

"We have consistently coordinated with Baguio City officials to ensure that we follow their rigorous protocols in order to preserve its status as a COVID-free city," it said.

Although two candidates have already left the competition, the organization said, "We strongly believe that this is not the end of their journey as they will soon emerge victorious to be able to pursue their dreams of becoming beauty queens."

On Friday, Cagayan de Oro bet Vincy Vacalares announced that she tested positive for COVID-19 and will no longer be able to continue with the pageant.

Meanwhile, Sorsogon candidate Maria Isabela Galeria said on Thursday that she will be withdrawing from the competition after surviving COVID-19, adding that felt that her body was not in a good condition enough to continue.

The Miss Universe Philippines coronation night will air on GMA-7 on October 25. —Kaela Malig/JCB, GMA News