ARIDA
MANILA, Philippines—Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up Ariella Arida is back in the contest—this time as a host.
The Philippines’ representative to the Miss Universe pageant last year has been tapped by the organizers to be a backstage host covering online events for this year’s contest.
Eighty-eight candidates will compete for the crown during the pageant which will be held in Miami, Florida, on January 25.
“Feeling ko magco-compete ulit ako,” Arida said in an interview with ABS-CBN News on Sunday, adding that she has since started working out to prepare for her role as a host.
In the past two years, Miss Universe title-holders Shamcey Supsup and Janine Tugonon have been tapped by Miss Universe organizers to host events during the pageant.
Arida said she hopes to be able to speak to the Philippines’ contestant this year, MJ Lastimosa, and help boost her confidence.
“I’m thankful that I was chosen by the organizers,” Arida said in Filipino, “because this way I can reach her (Lastimosa) and give her advice.”
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