MISS Universe Organization officials are currently in the Philippines to conduct ocular inspections in Manila and other destinations to be visited by the candidates, Tourism Undersecretary Katherine de Castro confirmed on Wednesday.
In an interview, De Castro said that technical inspections were already conducted in Manila, particularly at the Mall of Asia Arena where the coronation night will be held. Other provinces to be visited by the organizers are Vigan, Cebu, and Davao.
When asked about reports that other candidates are hesitant to visit Davao City due to travel advisories issued by the country they represent, De Castro clarified that there has been “no concrete statement from Miss Universe in terms of Davao.
“Davao will definitely push through. It will be part of the ocular inspection for the next few months,” she said. “Not all candidates will be joining the Davao leg. Miss Universe is not required to bring the 97 candidates.”