Did Maureen Montagne decline the Miss Eco International title?
(UPDATED) Miss Eco International 2019 1st runner-up Maureen Montagne issues a statement on Instagram about the matter, but revises it hours later
MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Did Maureen Montagne decline the Miss Eco International 2019 title?
Maureen, who finished 1st runner-up in that pageant, was reportedly offered the title after the winner, Suheyn Cipriani of Peru, was said to have been dethroned.
Going by her initial statement on the matter posted on her Instagram account late Friday morning, May 29, it appeared that she did.
In that statement, she said: "First and foremost, I want to say that this past year, I have poured my heart and soul to Binibining Pilipinas. I am eternally grateful for everyone's support on my pageant journey and I would like to say – I’m sticking with it,"
"I have made a commitment to the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Incorporated [whole]heartedly and I will continue to chase my dreams of competing on the BBP stage in the hopes of representing our country on the international stage," Maureen added.
In February, Maureen was chosen as one of the official candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2020.
She thanked the Miss Eco International organization, but she said she had to make a decision that she felt was right.
“I am thankful for the opportunities I have been offered this week by the Miss Eco International Organization to whom I will always be thankful to, but I know deep down I need to do what’s right in my heart,” she said.
"I sincerely wish the woman who will take the crown a wonderful reign ahead. I hope that everyone is safe and healthy during these trying times. Always remember to follow your dreams," Maureen added.
Later, however, she edited the IG post and reduced it to just a quote from Star Wars creator George Lucas: "Always remember, your focus determines your reality.”
Arnold Vegafria, national director of Miss Eco Philippines, said in a statement that it would be best to wait for the official statement from Miss Eco International, and that they will respect the decision made by its founder, Dr Amaal Rezk.
– Rappler.com
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