After reaching the last week of Miss Universe 2016, the contestants finally got an opportunity to meet the President of Philippines. On Monday (i.e. 23rd January 2017), 84 out of the 86 contestants paid a courtesy call on the President in Malacañang. Duterte delivered a speech praising all the contestants of Miss Universe 2016 and motivating them to advance the empowerment of women.
"I wish this day will never end. I must say that God is really good. Aside from the worries of governance, all the troubles in the world, when we look at you, we forget the universe,” said Duterte. "That's the end of my speech but there's something more that I must do. May I just give you a toast, by myself, to your beauty and to your brains. Mabuhay kayong lahat (Long live all of you)," added Duterte.
Duterte joked about his previous controversial comments and told the women, "I usually do not read my speeches, I'm not up to it really, but this time ... they told me that I must behave in my language." He urged the contestants to use the pageant to "advance women empowerment to a greater audience". "This is chance for you to make an impact, to inspire change, and even be the change that you wish to see in the world," he added.
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The event was also attended by Cabinet members like Teo, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, and Interior Secretary Ismael Sueno. Also present were Miss Universe Organization officials and former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson.
Miss Finland and Miss Switzerland couldn’t attend the event, as according to the reports, they were unwell. Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo said after the event that many of the candidates have had to adjust to the Philippine heat.
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The finale of the 65th edition of Miss Universe is slated to be held on 30th January 2017. Who do you think will win the title this year?