Published April 20, 2021, 10:23 AM
Rabiya Mateo
Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo has received a warm welcome from pageant fans during her arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the 69th Miss Universe competition.
On social media platforms, Jonas Gaffud, creative director for Miss Universe Philippines, shared snaps and video of Rabiya’s arrival in Florida. Rabiya was accompanied by other members of the Philippine delegation in the coastal area.
Gaffud said he is not aware if other girls have arrived in the host city. From May 6-7, the official candidates will be whisked off to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for their lodgings. Gaffud thanked the supporters of Rabiya in her Miss Universe journey.
Las Vegas-based Sugar Factory American Brasserie, known for couture lollipops, celebrity sightings and $43 tropical cocktails, intends to take over the closed Brio Tuscan Grille site in The Markets at Town Center.
The company said April 14 it will open at the 4910 Big Island Drive restaurant. The projected opening is in January.
It said it has the capacity for 312 seats, comprising 175 inside, 22 at the bar and 115 on the patio, in the property’s total 10,800 square feet of space.
Special features include an Instagram feature cafe in the front; indoor-outdoor dining and a bar with operable doors to a large outdoor patio with a trellis and lighting; and a large video wall. There will a flower and candy wall.
Miss Universe pageant set Miss Bahamas Universe Shauntae Miller. FILE
Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tuni will finally hand over the title and crown to her successor after a year-and-a-half as the competition has been scheduled for May 16 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood, Florida.
Miss Bahamas Universe (MBU) Shaunte Miller is hoping she will be the 69th female to hold the prestigious title. The event will be televised live.
Paula Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization said in a press release that the organization has spent months planning a safe competition. It will follow similar guidelines as November’s 2020 Miss USA competition.
Rabiya Mateo leaves for 69th Miss Universe pageant tonight mb.com.ph - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from mb.com.ph Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.