Philippines to host Miss Universe coronation night in 2017

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that Miss Universe grand coronation night will be held in the Philippines early next year.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo confirmed the development at a press conference on Thursday. She added that the expenses will all be shouldered by private sectors.

DOT Secretary Wanda Teo confirms Phl will host @MissUniverse 2016 pageant on January 30, 2017. pic.twitter.com/XRDfqIttEO

— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) July 28, 2016

Early this July, reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach flew back to the Philippines to discuss with President Rodrigo Duterte the possibility of holding the next Miss Universe grand coronation night in the Philippines. 

Duterte willingly approved the idea but said expenses must be shouldered by private sector.

It was in 1994 when the country last hosted the prestigious pageant.