Social media users thought the shade was thrown to Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Bea Gomez.
The Binibining Pilipinas Organization posted on Saturday an apology after one of its recent posts drew criticism from online users for seemingly sounding homophobic.
The post in question involves the Facebook account of Binibining Pilipinas sharing a photo of Binibining Pilipinas International 2021, Hannah Arnold, from the Miss International page. In the caption, it wrote: “Naturaaaaaal woman,” a remark which many saw as slighting Miss Universe Philippines 2021, Beatrice Luigi Gomez, the first and openly gay contestant to win the crown.
“There was no intention to throw malice at any individual,” Binibining Pilipinas’ apology statement claimed. “But we understand the impression created by the said caption given its timing.”
“The organization has always been about celebrating Filipinas of all backgrounds. We will never consciously do anything to minimize the experience and truth of anyone,” it added.
“We will ensure that future posts will be properly vetted and cleared by the organization. Moving forward, we commit to being more mindful online.”
The Binibining Pilipinas took place last July with Arnold winning the coveted crown and the chance to represent the country in the Miss International pageant in 2022.
Art Daniella Sison
