The Miss Universe Organization distanced itself from the "Beauty and the Beach" event held in Puerto Rico on the night of Friday, November 13, saying it did not take part in organizing, producing or administering it, amid widespread criticism. In a statement, the organization said events of this kind are usually held during the Miss Universe celebration period to promote tourism, highlight the host country’s culture and attractions and contribute to its economic development.
It said it authorizes independent producers, private companies and sponsors to hold events under the Miss Universe name, expecting them to meet the brand’s standards of professionalism, quality and excellence. In this case, it said, the event was organized and produced independently by Magali Febles and her company, which bought the rights to hold it under the pageant’s name.
The organization said it had trusted that the producer would deliver an activity in line with the brand’s standards but acknowledged the result fell short of its expectations. "Unfortunately, the event did not meet the standards of excellence and professionalism that the Miss Universe Organization expects of any activity associated with its name," it said.
It stressed that planning, organization, production and execution were the independent producer’s exclusive responsibility, and that some situations during the event were outside its control, with decisions made independently without its participation or approval. It said it should not be held responsible for those decisions or arrangements. The organization restated its commitment to the values and integrity that have defined the pageant in its 75-year history and said it regretted that the event did not reflect the professionalism expected by candidates, national directors, collaborators and followers.