MUO Picks PAL as Miss Universe 2017 Official Carrier

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has designated Philippine Airlines (PAL) as the official airline partner for the 65th Miss Universe pageant to be held in Manila this month, the airline shared on Thursday.

As official carrier and global sponsor, PAL will fly the Miss Universe candidates to top local destinations (Cebu, Davao, Boracay, Vigan, Baguio, Batanes, among others) for them to experience Filipino culture, cuisine, beaches and famous tourist attractions.

Aside from the candidates, all members of the organizing committee and working staff will also be flown by PAL to Manila.

A number of activities have been lined up by the organizing committee, culminating in the coronation on January 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City, where 2016 Miss Universe Pia Alonso Wurtzbach will transfer her crown to her successor. Wurtzbach is a PAL brand ambassador.

Maxine Medina, 2016 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe and daughter of PAL flight purser Maximo Guillermo Medina, will represent the country in the pageant. The 26-year-old Maxine was also picked by the airline executives as Miss Philippine Airlines for showing potential to portray the “Heart of the Filipino”.

Last December 7, nine of 12 contestants (representing Japan, Australia, China, Korea, Thailand, USA, New Zealand, Indonesia and Vietnam) as well as Miss Universe Organization President Paula Mary Shugart arrived in Manila via PAL for the pageant’s kick off event that included a photo shoot at Siargao beaches.

”PAL has lots of experience flying beauty queens. PAL was the official carrier of the 1994 Miss Universe and a sponsor of the 1974 edition, both held in the Philippines,” it said.

The flag carrier also flew then 18-year-old Gloria Diaz back to Manila in 1969 when she took home the country’s first Miss Universe crown, as well as Margie Moran, the country’s second Miss Universe title holder, in 1973.

”Since partnering with the Bb. Pilipinas pageant organizers, PAL has been flying the country’s representatives to and from the top beauty competitions,” the airline added.

This is the third time the Philippines will be hosting the prestigious event. (PNA)LGI/MCCA