Marian Rivera is not at all troubled by the criticisms coming her way after it was confirmed that she will be joining the panel of judges at the upcoming 2021 Miss Universe pageant in Israel.
The Kapuso star, who sparked doubt among netizens for her supposed lack of fluency in English, admitted that her English might not be very good, but that they have chosen her anyway in spite of that.
“Maybe it’s not just [because of my language], but also because of my body of work as a Filipina. I can say I am not pretentious and I express myself the way I feel,” she said.
Marian stated that while it’s difficult for her to leave her two kids behind, she believes that it is just too great an opportunity to pass up.
It is noted that the actress is not the first Pinay to take on the role of a Miss Universe judge. Back in 2017, Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach also made it to the panel, while musical actress Lea Salonga judged the Miss Universe 2011.
The upcoming pageant will be held on 12 December, with Beatrice Luigi Gomez representing the Philippines.
(Photo Source: Marian Rivera Instagram, Beatrice Luigi Gomez Instagram)