Model-turned-beauty queen Katarina Rodriguez immediately responded to reports that she resigned as Bb. Pilipinas-Intercontinental 2017, just two days after the grand coronation of Binibining Pilipinas 2017.
The reason, according to reports, is due to residency issue.
The issue began when a pageant-related blogsite posted on its social media account about the “shake-up” on the results of the Binibining Pilipinas 2017.
This was followed by a statement, allegedly coming from Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), that Katarina “expressed that she may not accept the crown” and that they are waiting for her formal letter of resignation.
This alarmed pageant enthusiasts, who came up with these possible reasons: dethronement or resignation of a candidate due to citizenship or residency issues.
But Katarina immediately took to her social media accounts to address this rumor.
The former Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 2 contestant denied making any announcement.
Katarina said in her Instagram and Twitter posts: "I never made any announcements that I'm not accepting the crown. Is it alright if everyone refrains from making assumptions first?"
She also assured her supporters, "whatever decision I make in regards to ANYTHING I will always consider where my heart & mind lie simultaneously."
Katarina added, "There's a lot of magic in honesty. Remember that."
Katarina also posted the following tweets:
I never made any announcements that I'm not accepting the crown? Is it alright if everyone refrains from making assumptions first.
— Katarina (@KatarinaRodri) May 2, 2017
And maybe think it's been two days since coronation which I obviously enjoyed so much. It was one of if not the funnest things I've done.
— Katarina (@KatarinaRodri) May 2, 2017
Aside from Katarina, the Binibining Pilipinas 2017 winners are: Rachel Peters, Miss Universe-Philippines; Maria Angelica de Leon; Bb. Pilipinas-International; Chanel Olive Thomas, Bb. Pilipinas-Supranational; Elizabeth Clenci, Bb. Pilipinas-Grand International; Nelda Ibe, Bb. Pilipinas Globe; Charmaine Elima, 1st runner-up; and Kristel Guelos, 2nd runner-up.