Hosting Miss Universe a golden opportunity, says DOT

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday insisted that the country is ready and willing to host the Miss Universe pageant's main event in January despite protests.

The government's decision to accept the Miss Universe Organization's offer to stage the prestigious beauty contest in the Philippines has an "overwhelming support among Filipino women and their families," the tourism department said.

“Needless to say, this is such a special and proud occasion where we are presented with the golden opportunity to host the event in which the reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of Cagayan de Oro City would pass on the Crown to her successor,” the DOT's statement read.

The DOT also downplayed the petition to the Miss Universe Organization not to hold the pageant in the Philippines due to "demeaning" statements by President Rodrigo Duterte and other elected officials.

“While the DOT gives due respect to such opinion as signified by a group of women leaders and concerned citizens, we assure everyone that we deem it a great honor to host the distinguished event that portrays the most beautiful and talented women with highest regard,” the department said.

The DOT thanked the Miss Universe Organization for choosing the Philippines as its host, saying it is an “opportunity to treat the world to genuine hospitality.”

It also insisted that hosting the pageant will boost the country’s tourism promotion program.

The massive attendance of international media for the two-week event will benefit local businesses as well as the travel and tour sector, the DOT said.

The Miss Universe coronation night is slated on Jan. 30, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena. The DOT earlier denied rumors that it will not push through.