Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo was a kind, smart, and helpful child, said Chief Bernie Fuentes of Barangay Poblacion Norte, Balasan, Iloilo.
In an interview with Panay News, Fuentes shared that he had seen the young Rabiya with her mother when they came to the barangay hall where her mother had worked as a secretary.
“Sa pagkilala ko na sa iya nga bata mabuot kag malaam. Ina nga bata ma-initindihon man. Si Nanay ya sina dugay na sa amon barangay bilang barangay secretary. Nag-updanay na kami ni Nanay. Kag ini nga bata wala ka sang isaway kag maayo gid ina,” Fuentes said.
Fuentes’ home is only 15 meters from house of the Mateos.
He says he is certain that Rabiya will claim the 5th crown in the Miss Universe 2020, to be held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, United States on May 17 Philippine time.
He also said that all of Balasan, including the barangay officials, are praying for Rabiya.
He added that even now he is proud of Rabiya being the first person in their municipality to be represented in the Miss Universe beauty pageant.
“Daku gid nga bugal sa amon nga taga-diri gid si Maam Rabiya nga isa ka Balaseño, first time in history nga natabo nga isa ka Balaseño ang naga-representar sa Pilipinas sa Miss Universe.”/PN
