All systems go for 65th Miss Universe pageant

It’s the night before the coronation, and the Miss Universe (Pictured) Organization (MUO) pulled out all the stops in holding the penultimate red carpet event on Sunday at the SMX Convention Center in the Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, Pasay City. (Photo: Bb. Pilipinas/ Facebook)

MANILA –It’s the night before the coronation, and the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) pulled out all the stops in holding the penultimate red carpet event on Sunday at the SMX Convention Center in the Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, Pasay City.

MUO President Paula Shugart and Philippine organizers led by former governor Chavit Singson of LCS Group presented the 86 candidates from as many countries to members of the international media and the local press.

Reigning Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of the Philippines bade farewell to her legions of supporters as she prepares to crown her successor in about 12 hours at the nearby MOA Arena.

Performing at tomorrow’s show are American rapper Flo Rida and multi-awarded R&B band Boys II Men, who also walked the red carpet tonight along with former Miss Universe winners Dayanara Torres of Puerto Rico and Sushmita Sen of India, both of whom will serve in the pageant’s board of judges.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and DOT Undersecretary Kat de Castro were among the government officials who attended the red carpet event. However, they were not able to confirm the attendance of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the 65th Miss Universe rites.