Businessman and former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson confirmed he is considering the purchase of the Miss Universe Organization and said he is open to a full acquisition if negotiations move forward and the terms are acceptable.
Singson said he has begun discussions related to a possible takeover and that former Miss Universe officials are expected to visit the Philippines this month. “I said, ‘I’m interested to buy.’ I’ve talked to former Miss Universe officials, and they’re coming here next month January. One hundred percent takeover, dapat, mahirap may kasosyo,” he said. “Yes, willing ako, if the price is right.”
He cited his experience as a sponsor of the 2017 Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines, recalling the scale of expenses required to host the international competition. Singson said the hosting involved a one million dollar non refundable down payment and total spending of at least fifteen million dollars. “Nakita na naman ang Pilipinas dahil sa Miss Universe. The Philippines gained around 500 million dollars worth of media mileage,” he said.
Singson said his interest in acquiring the organization comes amid controversies that have affected recent Miss Universe editions. He referenced issues surrounding pageants held in Thailand and Mexico as part of his assessment of the organization’s current condition. “Nasira sila sa Thailand, nasira sila sa Mexico, na accuse sila na nabili yung judging or something, so sirang sira,” he said. “Kung ipagpapatuloy nila baka lalo sila malugi. So, kako, bilhin ko nalang.”
The Miss Universe Organization has experienced leadership changes and internal disruptions in recent years, including controversy during the 2025 competition in Bangkok that involved judging concerns and resignations. Singson said no formal negotiations have taken place so far. “Palagay ko naman, they are willing to sell. But there’s no negotiations yet,” he said.
If a deal proceeds, Singson said management of the organization would be handled by his daughter, Richelle Singson Michael, who previously served as chairperson of the Miss Universe host committee in 2017. He said his motivation for the acquisition is tied to promoting the country rather than financial gain. “Kukunin namin para pagandahin ang Pilipinas, hindi para kumita, No. 1. Willing naman ako malugi diyan kasi maganda para sa ating bansa,” he said.
In a social media post, Singson said he recently met with his daughter and former Miss Universe vice president Shawn McClain to discuss possible acquisition talks involving the Miss Universe Organization. He said discussions would be pursued with parties who have authority over the organization.
As of now, Singson said he remains interested in the acquisition but stressed that no agreement has been finalized and no transaction has been completed.
