Rabiya Mateo tells pageant aspirants: ‘Have a solid support group’

Rabiya Mateo is enjoying a fruitful showbiz career after joining Miss Universe. Image: INQUIRER.net/Armin P. Adina

Rabiya Mateo now enjoys a fruitful career in the entertainment industry after embarking on a colorful pageant journey that saw her being plucked from the province to compete in an international arena. And now she has been sharing advice to beauty contestants who are hoping to be as successful as she is.

“Have a group, the glam team, support group who will be solid for you,” she said in a recent media gathering at Pandan Asian Café in Quezon City where she was introduced as the newest face of Mags Clothing.

“It’s gonna be one of the most vulnerable moments of your life. The Lord will really test you there. You’re gonna be weak because you will get nervous, because it’s the greatest fight of your life,” continued Mateo, who captured the Miss Universe Philippines crown on her first attempt at a national title in 2020, representing Iloilo City.

The 2020 Miss Universe semifinalist said she hopes ladies will find a group of people who can offer financial assistance, and will also provide support “morally,” which she found to be very important. “Hindi madali ang laban (the fight will not be easy),” Mateo said.

READ: Rabiya Mateo reveals she had doubts about dating Jeric Gonzales

And addressing women in general, not just pageant contestants, the host and actress said she believes women, especially young girls, need to educate themselves. “Because knowledge is also power, so that whatever path in life you may choose to take, you are knowledgeable enough to start somewhere,” said the licensed physical therapist and former instructor.

Mateo continued: “Once you have the knowledge, confidence will follow. And that confidence, it will bring you great moments in life. So, I guess, it boils down to educating yourself. It can really make a huge impact in our lives, not just to women, but also to everyone.”

And despite mounting calls for her to throw her hat in the pageant arena once again, Mateo has declared that she is closing that chapter in her life. “I’m flattered. But I’m at a different stage in my life right now. I can say I’m done with pageantry. I am happy with the opportunities that I have been getting in show business,” she explained.

She also said she feels relieved that she did not have to embark on her journey to a crown at this time, citing the fierce competition in the 2024 Miss Universe Philippines pageant. “There are so many beautiful girls who are good. Even the fresh faces have a shot at winning!” the beauty queen-turned-actress said.

Mateo is seen on the daily late afternoon variety show “TiktoClock” and is part of the “afternoon prime” series “Makiling,” both on GMA.