PAGEANT | Miss Philippines National Costume in Miss Universe 2020 (69th Edition)

Pretty, But Forgettable

Much has been said about the National Costume of Miss Philippines, Rabiya Mateo. even prompting Rabiya to go live in one of her social media accounts to apologize for supposedly not living up to fans' expectations on her costume. While previous Philippine title holders like Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray defended Rabiya from the negative feedbacks.

Verdict: It has been an anonymous observation that the national costume, albeit a huge improvement from previous designs spanning 2010 (Barazza era) down to present - still lacked character and X-factor. In other words, the costume is a Victoria Secret material at best but remains forgettable. Years from now, pageant fans will look back and ask, what did Rabiya wear again for National Costume?

It's not the head piece. It's the costume itself. You look at the lackluster feathers (the most common material in the history of pageants) and you easily get tired. Before you know it, you start asking - that's it? As if we are waiting for some grand gimmick to suddenly appear from somewhere.

Altered Costume?

The gown was designed by the late Gathercole, a Filipino designer who recently passed away. Rabiya's team decided to use the designer's work as a post tribute. Sources reveal that the original design had long trails and a headpiece resembling the sun; an ode to the Philippine flag. But many were quick to point out how Rabiya's final look showed a seeming altered version - with cuts on the ending. 

Reports also reveal that the wings itself is 21kgs (half a sack of rice) making it difficult to balance a headpiece in such weight. Shamcey Supsup (former Miss Universe, 3rd RU) from her interview admitted that the headpiece was not perfectly fit so Rabiya chose not to wear it in fear that it might fall while on stage. 

 What's your take on Rabiya's national costume? Comment them below.