Willianette Robles Cancel, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (CTPR), announced Wednesday that the agency delivered to the Puerto Rico Senate documentation requested regarding the agreement to host the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico. The move follows up on a meeting held last week with Senate Vice President Marissa "Marissita" Jiménez Santoni, where the agreement and CTPR's oversight mechanisms were discussed.
The request comes amid questions about the organization's handling of funds after a multimillion-dollar disbursement by the Puerto Rico government. Jiménez Santoni had recommended canceling the Miss Universe contract due to doubts. Robles Cancel said in written statements that CTPR has managed the agreement responsibly with necessary controls to protect the public investment, and provided the requested information for examination.
She said the pageant offers an opportunity to showcase Puerto Rico internationally and generate economic activity in the tourism industry, with production and coordination work continuing ahead of the event in November, when the island will host candidates, delegations, production teams, media and visitors from around the world. Candidates will also get to experience Puerto Rico's attractions, culture and tourism offerings.