The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has sent a cease-and-desist letter to Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil, demanding he stop making statements the agency deems false or misleading regarding its handling of public funds for the Miss Universe 2026 pageant. The letter, sent through the company's legal representatives, follows public statements by Itsaragrisil about the corporate structure and authority of JKN Universe, LLC, and the handling of public funds.
Tourism Company Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel stated that the agency is not a party to disputes between Itsaragrisil and the Miss Universe organization, and will not allow those disputes to question the integrity of its processes or management of public funds. The company claims to have corporate documentation supporting its actions and authorizations related to the event.
The Tourism Company's responsibility is to protect public funds, Puerto Rico's interests, and the island's image as a tourism destination while ensuring transparency and rigor in its actions.