Previously, there were speculation ahead of the Miss Universe finale, that 30th January 2017 be declared as a holiday in Philippines for the fans to enjoy the pageant. However, President Rodrigo Duterte is in no mood to declare the day as a non-working holiday.

So now, students and all the working Filipinos will have to forward a leave application if they want to watch the Miss Universe finale, as January 30, Monday, will remain a working day. The Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea revealed that there has been no such declaration of a holiday.

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According to the lawmaker, the special holiday would allow Filipinos to watch the much-awaited pageant and support Miss Philippines Maxine Medina. "It would be a pity if our countrymen miss the opportunity to witness in their own backyard a contest where Filipinas have proven to excel and become certified champions on beauty and brains," Castelo had said in a statement.

However, the Palace specified that although it fully supports the Miss Universe pageant, it should not get in the way of government work. According to the Palace, there should be no disruption of work and service in their respective offices because of the pageant.

Also Watch the Miss Universe 2016 contestants dazzle in Preliminary Competition

The 65th edition of Miss Universe pageant is slated to be held on 30th January 2017, and a total of 86 contestants are competing for the coveted crown. At the coronation gala, Pia Wurtzbach will pass on her crown to her successor. Who do you think will win the crown this year?