Marian Rivera just revealed that she will be part of this year’s Miss Universe panel of judges. She confirmed the news in an online media conference and said, “Minsan lang mabigyan ng pagkakataon na makabilang sa isang mahalagang okasyon sa mundo kung saan bitbit mo ang bandila ng ating bansa kaya para sa akin, isang malaking karangalan siya kaya naman buong puso ko talaga itong tinanggap.”
Rivera also said that more than just judging the candidates, she personally believes that her role is to appreciate, celebrate, and witness the beauty of women from all around the world, as well as their bravery for bringing back humanity in spite of the challenges that are brought about by the pandemic.
GMA News reported that Rivera “was chosen by the production less than a month ago, and then the choice was forwarded to the Miss Universe Organization who vetted her before asking her to be part of the selection committee.”
The Kapuso star hinted at this stint on Instagram last week to which the netizens had mixed reactions. While others congratulated her and were proud of her, some were reportedly doubtful and even questioned her credibility for the role.
Also read: Did Marian Rivera Reveal That She’s Going to Be a Miss Universe 2021 Judge?
Apparently, the multi-awarded actress and entrepreneur is aware of the feedback and addressed it in her interview. She said, “Aaminin ko na hindi naman talaga English ang first language ko kung hindi Filipino at kinuha pa rin nila ako—siguro hindi lang dahil doon—kung hindi dahil sa aking body of work bilang isang Filipina.”
Nevertheless, the actress promised that she will be putting her best foot forward and stay true to herself in carrying out her duties as a Miss Universe 2021 judge. “Basta ang masasabi ko lang, kilala niyo naman ako. Hindi naman ako mapagpanggap, hindi ba? Kaya i-eexpress ko ang sarili ko nang naaayon sa nararamdaman ko sa araw na ‘yan,” she concluded.
Watch the full interview below:
Miss Universe 2021 will be on December 12 at Eilat, Israel.
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