MISS U 2018 MIGHT BE STAGED IN THE PHILIPPINES

The possibility of holding Miss Universe 2018 in the Philippines is once again brought to attention as the government is vocal about bringing back the pageant into the country and might coincide with the opening the world famous resort island of Boracay after its rehabilitation.  The island is up for a scheduled rehab for six months beginning April 26 but might be cut short in the event that they close the deal with the Miss Universe Organization. Tourism Secretary stated however that the shortened Boracay closure was not necessarily prompted by Miss Universe plans. If this push through, it will be the fourth time for the country to host the pageant. But unlike in 2016, this time it's the Philippine Government who will entirely sponsor the pageant.  

There are also unconfirmed reports that Miss Universe 2018 will be held in China.  Mrs. Teo noted that if the deal is not done this year, they are looking into the possibility of bidding the event next year.  In an article published by Philstar, Mrs. Teo divulged that at their their recent cabinet meeting, it was President Duterte himself who suggested to bring back the Miss Universe pageant to the island once it is re-open citing that it will be a perfect timing to promote the island after the closure.  

Just a thought, there are pros and cons about this.   What if it will be held in the Philippines, will it be favorable to our representative Catriona Gray? As of now, Catriona is considered one of the favorites to win the crown and if ever she win, this will surely ignite a backfire and the host country will be flooded with negative criticism and question it's credibility.  And what's Catriona's chances of winning if it will be held in China? As we all know, there's political tension between the two countries notwithstanding President Duterte's pronunciation of strengthening ties with China amidst political differences with both China and the U.S.  However pageant observers reason out  saying that Miss Universe is different and that the organization will not allow politics to intervene to preserve their credibility.  

Incidentally China is also the venue for this year's Miss World. How about holding the event in other countries like Australia, New Zealand or bring back the pageant in Singapore and Taiwan.  I think it would be more exciting to hold the event in countries mentioned since the Philippines has just hosted the pageant two years ago and having China hosting the Miss Universe and Miss World in the same year is certainly not exciting.