The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (CTPR) has committed to providing the Senate with a detailed budget and evidence of expenses related to the Miss Universe 2026 celebration, to be held in Puerto Rico in November. This comes after an emergency meeting to discuss contracts and the management of public funds for the international beauty pageant. CTPR Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel will deliver documentation for the $4.5 million disbursed so far, out of the $8.7 million committed by the government.
The meeting was convened by Senate Vice President Marissa Jiménez Santoni, following public questions from Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil, a shareholder of the Miss Universe parent company, about the transfer and management of public funds for the contest. Robles presented a breakdown of contractual agreements and measures to ensure government investment oversight. The contract includes clauses to protect local providers, ensuring they receive payment before the final disbursement.
As part of the agreements, CTPR will also manage the delivery of pending corporate resolutions, expense audits, and invoices from JKN Universe LLC. Jiménez will establish a direct channel for Miss Universe to provide documentation on its shareholder structure, to be handled confidentially and diligently.