BPCI confirms continuation of MUP ownership

FILE: “Private dinner for Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray at the Araneta Residence in Quezon City.” (Photo: BB Pilipinas (Official)/Facebook)

In a statement to the Manila Bulletin, the international organization confirmed, “In our continuing efforts to build and evolve the Miss Universe brand in the Philippines, the Miss Universe Organization has explored many options and opportunities to enhance Binibining and grow it into a dynamic, multi-faceted platform. While exploring these opportunities, we sought the input of all of our partners and will continue to do so,” elaborating that they came to this decision, “in seeking to modernize and grow the brand into more than a one day special,” adding that Singson has agreed to support [them] in efforts to do so.”

The statement concludes, “We look forward to the collaboration and innovation to bring an exciting future to Miss Universe Philippines and our beloved fans in the country.”

With that, the Binibining Pilipinas competition is confirmed to happen in June, where the BPCI will choose the country’s representative for Miss Universe 2019 in South Korea. Singson agreed to host the candidates in his hometown at Vigan, just as he did in 2017.

Earlier in the year, confusion sparked when the former politician and businessman told the media that the franchise is with him, saying that it should be “announced this January or February when Catriona comes back again to the Philippines.” However, Araneta was quick to declare falsity to his statement.

[READ: Chavit Singson confirms new ownership of Miss Universe PH]

In the meantime, 24-year-old beauty queen Gray still remains in the Philippines to close off her homecoming parade festivities this weekend.