Taking a break from his usual serious work engagements, President Duterte met the Miss Universe 2016 candidates during a courtesy call in Malacañang a week before the coronation yesterday.
Duterte was awestruck to meet and was extremely delighted to witness the parade of the towering Miss Universe candidates and encouraged them “to be the change you wish to see in the world.”
“Before I proceed, I’d like to make an admission that never in my life I have been with a room full of beautiful women. This is either privilege and an honor and I hope that this day will never end,” the President said, drawing laughter from the audience.
Duterte, looking like a perfect gentleman in his Barong Tagalog, said that he was going to read a prepared speech as part of the advice to “behave” before the Miss Universe candidates.
“I usually do not read my speeches. I am not up to it really but this time because they told me that I must behave in my language, in the adjectives that I would be using to characterize or define your beauty, all of you,” said Duterte.
“And I must say that God is really good. Aside from the worries of governance, with all the troubles in the world, when we look at you, we forget the universe, but only you,” he said.
With their friendly smile and good looks, 84 Miss Universe candidates charmed not only the President but other Cabinet members, Palace staff, and the media during their visit. Many were seen taking photos of the beautiful candidates while waiting for the President’s arrival for the event.
Miss Finland and Miss Switzerland skipped the event since they are not feeling well, according to Department of Tourism Director Ina Zara-Loyala.
In his speech, the President thanked the Miss Universe organization for allowing the Philippines to host the 65th edition of the prestigious international competition.
“It is an event which has undeniably brought enormous pride and joy for the countries of winning candidates. We all share of fame to our very own Miss Gloria Diaz, Miss Margarita Moran, and the reigning Miss Pia Wurtzbach,” Duterte said.
To the Miss Universe candidates, the President said he hoped they had a wonderful time visiting various places in the country such as Vigan, Cebu, Baguio, Batangas, and Davao. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)