MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe co-owner Raul Rocha on Saturday denied claims that the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has changed ownership and accused former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson of spreading false statements amid an ongoing dispute over the pageant’s ownership.
Rocha made the remarks in an Instagram Story on Jan. 3, calling an unnamed individual and his daughter a “delusional fool” for claiming ownership of the MUO. His post came shortly after Singson publicly asserted that Rocha and co-owner Anne Jakrajutatip no longer own the global beauty pageant.
The Miss Universe Organization separately issued a statement on its official website and social media platforms denying Singson’s claim and reaffirming that the pageant remains under the ownership and leadership of Rocha and Jakrajutatip.
“The Miss Universe Organization remains under its current ownership and leadership,” the organization said, adding that recent statements suggesting otherwise were “false and misleading.”
The MUO said the claims appeared to misrepresent ownership, suggest nonexistent acquisition opportunities, and create public confusion. It also warned that such statements could improperly solicit investments and exploit the Miss Universe brand.
The organization said it is consulting legal advisers and plans to take appropriate steps to address and prevent the spread of misinformation regarding its ownership.
“The Miss Universe Organization is actively reviewing these matters with its legal advisors and will take all appropriate and necessary steps to address and prevent further false, misleading, or unauthorized actions or statements,” the statement said.
The MUO urged the public and media to rely only on its official communication channels for verified information related to ownership and leadership.
Singson has not issued a response to Rocha’s remarks or the MUO statement as of publication.
Rocha is currently under investigation abroad for alleged drug, firearms, and fuel trafficking, while Jakrajutatip was recently sentenced to two years in prison by the South Bangkok Civil Court in an unrelated case.
