It’s time to worry about the logistics of holding the 2016 Miss Universe pageant in the country!
On Mon, Aug 8, Fox News reported that Islamic State jihadis in the Philippines are planning an attack during the 2016 Miss Universe, which will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Jan, 2017.
Q&A: Maxine Medina, Philippines’ bet to Miss Universe 2016
According to the report, a jihadi posted a message on a pro-ISIS social media group encouraging “everyone who can, to launch attacks at the event.”
Agence France-Presse reported that the Department of Tourism (DOT) is taking the threat seriously.
But it added the country would still push through, and is ready, to host the Miss Universe in 2017.
The DOT cited the visit of Pope Francis and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit last year as proof that the Philippines is equipped to host an international event.
Meanwhile, the DOT also assured the public that the Miss Universe pageant will not cause heavy traffic in Metro Manila.
“The maddening traffic mess is obviously the one single problem that besets our daily economic activities in Metro Manila, and we will find ways so as not to aggravate this with the hosting of Miss Universe,” said DOT secretary Wanda Teo.
READ: Malacañang confirms: Gov’t will not spend a single centavo on Miss Universe pageant
As previously reported, Teo is looking into holding parts of the pageant outside Metro Manila — particularly in Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Palawan, Boracay, and Vigan.
However, the actual coronation night will be held on Mon, Jan 30.
Maxine Medina will represent the country in the 2016 Miss Universe pageant.
