Iloilo City is being eyed to be the next host of the prestigious Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) come September this year.

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas announced on his Facebook page that Iloilo City received a proposal from a marketing and production company to host this year’s edition of the MUP pageant.

“Having the reigning Miss Universe Philippines 2020, Rabiya Mateo, a resident of Iloilo City, I am very much open to this proposal,” said Treñas.

He underscored that he is always supportive of activities that showcase the talents of the Ilonggos and open opportunities to create livelihood and promote local businesses including the city tourism.

According to the city mayor, they are now checking on the requirements in order for the city to host the national pageant.

He added that he is also talking to Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. regarding this development.

Iloilo City’s possible hosting of MUP came into the picture late last year following the crowning of Mateo as the first-ever Miss Universe Philippines titlist under the new pageant organization.

As early as last year, Treñas expressed his 100% support to the idea of the city hosting the MUP pageant.

He even cited the Iloilo Convention Center in Mandurriao district as one of the possible venues for the pageant as well as the famous Iloilo River Esplanade as venue for other MUP side events or other programs./WDJ