Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach officially announced that the Philippines will be hosting the Miss Universe 2017 in January. In an Instagram video, she confirmed the hosting, after months of speculation whether it will indeed push through. In related news, preparations are underway in Baguio City which will be part of the pageant’s itinerary.
Watch: Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach Announces PH Hosting via JonasofMercator Instagram Page
According to GMA News, this comes after months of back and forth between the Miss Universe organization and the government. Pia herself made an official visit with President Rodrigo Duterte in July to talk about the possibility of hosting.
Baguio City To Host Miss Universe Contestants
Meanwhile the Summer Capital is starting preparations for the pageant. According to Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio (HRAB) and Baguio Country Club general manager Anthony de Leon, Miss Universe Pia will accompany around 30 Miss Universe contestants end of January.
De Leon, during a press conference, also mentioned that the visit will require an investment of P15 million. As expected, private sector tourism stakeholders will be contributing to reach this amount, said De Leon. Without support from the local government, De Leon still hopes to coordinate with them for the success of the hosting.
In an earlier Pilipinas Popcorn report, Mayor Mauricio Domogan promised that the city will be prepared for the visit. He also said that this will be their chance to showcase the rich culture and traditions of the Cordilleras.
Miss Universe’s First Time In Baguio City
While this is not the first time for the country, it is the first time that Baguio City will be part of the pageant.
De Leon mentioned that pageant contestants will visit at the Philippine Military Academy, the Mansion and other places of interest. To facilitate faster transport, the Loakan airport will be their point of entry and exit. According to De Leon, the Baguio Country Club will accommodate the contestants.
To read more about Miss Universe 2017 visit to Baguio City click here.
Miss Universe 2017 is slated on January 12 to 30, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Like PilipinasPopcorn on Facebook for more updates. To send feedback or contribute your stories, email editor@pilipinaspopcorn.com