MANILA, Philippines — With bashing and negativity pervading the virtual space, the Miss Universe Philippines organization took upon itself to change how fans and aficionados show their love and support to their respective bets and favorites.
In the past, netizens could just say what they want, even hurtful and hateful messages towards candidates and winners. All that's going to change for the better.
Over the weekend, the MUPh organization through its social media pages, laid out new rules of engagement between the organization and the entire pageant community. Initiating a commitment to fostering #ABeautifulUniverse through its #SpreadingKindness campaign, the pageant community has embraced this revived initiative towards positivity.
"There is beauty in kindness and sensitivity. Hate and disrespect aren't welcome in our community," the post began. In light of Miss Universe USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst's untimely demise, due to severe depression from online bashing and 'extraordinary' beauty standards expected from beauty queens, it is hoped this campaign sends not just a ripple, but a major wave in the entire global pageant community."
"The screen is not a shield. Just because it's digital doesn't mean it's harmless. Keep criticisms constructive, opinions sensitive & sensible, and statements respectful," the post continued.
Before the advent of social media, beauty aspirants rarely experienced mental health issues. Most of the negative comments given by audiences often remained in the pageant venues and seldom reached the intended targets. Today, a single hateful post could be magnified to a virulent status - hate and negativity gain traction the fastest.
"Honesty is beautiful, not brutal. There are ways to be honest without being cruel. It's time to stop unkind attacks," the post went on.
What netizens sometimes fail to consider is how a seemingly casual, hurtful remark could affect the entire psyche of an entrant. And if she's a newcomer, you could just imagine the repercussions. So much so if she plies the pageant waters alone and without a support system.
"Build, don't break. It's okay to have favorites. It's not okay to tear others down," ended the very insight-filled post. This final statement rings true not just in pageantry, but in real life as well. One cannot reach the top by simply pulling others down. Because when you feel like you've reached the last rung, other like-minded individuals who saw how you went about it will also give you a dose of your own medicine. And the vicious cycle just keeps going on. Achievements will always be sweet when won fair and square.
Let's all support this perspective of #SpreadingKindness -- not just in pageantry but in life as well.
Without a designated venue as of yet, the MUPh organization has scheduled the coronation night of its 2022 edition on April 30.