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Miss Universe issues statement following pre-pageant incident in Bangkok
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has released a statement following an incident during a pre-pageant activity in Bangkok, Thailand.
In a social media post, the MUO said they are reaffirming their commitment to working with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to ensure the continued success of the 74th Miss Universe competition.
"Together, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of respect, safety, and integrity for all participants, staff, and stakeholders," the statement read.
They also said that a high-level delegation, led by the MUO Chief Executive Officer Mario Búcaro, is traveling to Thailand "to strengthen collaboration with the host country, MGI, and relevant authorities."
"This mission aims to coordinate efforts, ensure a secure and professional environment for all delegates, and reaffirm MUO's commitment to transparency, respect, and unity," it said.
According to the organization, all scheduled events and activities will continue as planned, in full cooperation with the host country and MGI, reaffirming their shared goal of delivering an exceptional global celebration that reflects the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion that define the Miss Universe legacy.
"The Miss Universe Organization remains steadfast in its mission to promote collaboration, respect, and opportunity for women around the world, working hand in hand with all partners to ensure a safe, inspiring, and memorable experience for every delegate," they wrote.
Miss Universe Thailand reshared the statement on Facebook and wrote, "Thank you for your understanding."
Earlier, in a video posted by Miss Universe Thailand, its National Director, Nawat Itsaragrisil, was seen having an exchange with someone off-screen and later calling security.
Later, Miss Universe Mexico released a statement about their candidate, Fatima Bosch, and said what happened to her in Thailand is "unacceptable."
"Miss Universe Mexico raises her voice. What happened today with [Fatima Bosch] in Thailand is unacceptable. No woman, under any circumstance, deserves to be insulted or humiliated," they wrote in Spanish, as translated in English by Instagram.
Meanwhile, in an Instagram story, reigning Miss Universe Victoria Victoria Kjær Theilvig said that she is proud of Fatima.
The Danish beauty queen said that standing up for oneself is one of the most important acts of self-respect and strength you can show.
"It means knowing your worth, setting boundaries, and not allowing anyone or anything to undermine your voice or your value," she said.
"It's about acknowledging that you have a right to be heard, to express your opinions, and to pursue your dreams, regardless of any obstacles that may come your way. Enough is enough, and our voices will be heard loud and clear!" Victoria added.
This is not the first issue that occurred in the Miss Universe competition this year.
On Sunday, Miss Universe Thailand's (MUT) official social media pages posted about a "Special Dinner & Talk Show," encouraging netizens to vote for Miss Universe candidates through Facebook and Instagram likes and shares.
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) slammed the event and said, "such initiatives do not represent the values, operations, or official activities of the Miss Universe Organization."
In its statement, the MUO added that "The Organization further declares that any promotional materials, contests, or voting initiatives currently circulating online under the Miss Universe name, including those associated with the aforementioned event, are unauthorized and misleading."
Following MUO's statement, MUT addressed the issue, saying that "as the officially licensed Host Organization, we hold the rights to manage and execute such promotional activities within our territory."
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant is scheduled to be held on November 21. Ahtisa Manalo will vie for the Philippines' fifth crown.
—Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News
