On May 17, 2021, many beauty pageant enthusiasts held their breath as the 69th Miss Universe commenced worldwide.
Every country prayed for their bets to move a step closer to taking home the Miss Universe crown successfully. Unfortunately, for Miss Philippines candidate Rabiya Mateo, her dreams to bring the crown home fell short as she only reached the top 21.
The top ten candidates who did make it in no particular order are:
- Dominican Republic
- Peru
- Puerto Rica
- Jamaica
- India
- Australia
- Thailand
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Brazil
Despite not being able to bag the crown, many Filipinos still praised and congratulated Mateo for her passion, hard work, and efforts to represent her country.
Who is Rabiya Mateo?
Mateo earned her bachelor’s degree in Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT) and graduated Cum Laude.
Her career as a teacher began when she was 21 years old. Currently, Mateo’s the ambassador for the Philippines’ education programs such as AHA Learning Center and National Reading Month. She is officially affiliated with the Department of Education.
Mateo initiated a humanitarian project that she calls “Feed Me, and I Read You,” focusing on helping children living within the areas near Iloilo City dumpsite.
What does Mateo’s project offer?
It offers both reading sessions and feeding programs.
Rabiya Mateo extends her efforts to support the Filipino children’s needs for proper nutrition and advocates exclusive breastfeeding. She is a Philippine Red Cross volunteer.
