MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Rachel Peters missed to reach the pageant’s Question and Answer portion that she trained hard for. But in an interview with the press on Thursday, Rachel was able to showcase the wit and charm the entire universe missed at the coronation night.
During the press conference organized by Filipino food chain Jollibee, Rachel answered a question from Philstar.com: “What Filipino traditions and places would you like to teach and show to your fellow Miss Universe candidates?”
Peters answered the question with grace and poise, as if answering in the pageant's Q&A.
“One of the values that make the Philippines great is that Filipinos are so hospitable. We always want to make sure people have a good time. That and the feeling of being a family. When you invite someone into your home, you’re inviting them as a part of your family. So, that’s what we’re doing to everyone in the Miss Universe Organization while they’re here. It’s something that they can take back and share to people in their countries as well.”
Though she did not win, she said she has become stronger and braver since joining the competition.
“Going through something like that, it takes a lot of bravery. You become more confident…You help others around you. I think going on any pageant, most especially Miss Universe, it changes you, it makes you stronger, braver, and more ready to face whatever else comes after the pageant.”
Philstar.com asked her again about her plans after Miss Universe, and she said: “I’m taking it easy. Christmas is coming up. It’s time for family and taking a moment to be thankful for everything.”
She said she always wanted to bond with her family in Thailand. There are rumors that besides concentrating on her coffee shop business in Siargao, she will also enter politics to join her boyfriend, Camarines Sur Gov. Miguel Luis Villafuerte.
“We’ll see what happens in 2018!” she said.
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