Victoria Velasquez Vincent, the crowned Miss Universe Philippines Charity 2021, has revealed that she was offered to represent New Zealand in the Miss Universe global pageant.
In an Instagram post that she shared on Monday, October 11, the beauty queen recounted how she was immediately offered the title after the Miss Universe Philippines coronation night held last September 30. But despite being born in New Zealand, Victoria had to say “no” to the offer for one reason alone: “I am a Filipina.”
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“Shortly after the MUPH coronation night, I was offered to be Miss Universe New Zealand 2021. After a week of contemplation, countless discussions with my family, friends, and team, I eventually came to the decision to politely decline the offer,” she began her story.
“So many people will say I’m crazy for turning down this opportunity, but I had to choose what I know in my heart was the right thing to do. My heart is, and always will be here to serve the Philippines. Some may say I’m not Filipina enough, and that’s ok. I know who I am. I know what I stand for. I am a Filipina.”
Despite turning down the offer, she expressed her gratitude to the Miss Universe New Zealand organization for their “kindness” in considering her for this “opportunity of a lifetime,” as well as to the Miss Universe Philippines organization for assuring their support whatever she decides.
“I am so excited to see what the future holds for us, Philippines,” she ended her post.
Victoria represented Cavite City in the recent local pageant where Cebu City’s Beatrice Luigi Gomez was eventually crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2021.
(ALSO READ: Miss World PH Tracy Maureen Perez Reveals Why She Fell Twice During Coronation Night)
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