Singapore’s bet reacts to Miss Universe 2026 withdrawal

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Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

October 22, 2026 | 2:20pm

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Singapore 2026 Vion Tan expressed her disappointment after learning that Singapore would not participate in the 75th Miss Universe competition next month in Puerto Rico.

In a social media statement, Tan addressed supporters who had been looking forward to her international pageant journey, admitting that the news had taken an emotional toll on her.

"To everyone who has been supporting me and sharing in my excitement about my upcoming journey to Puerto Rico, I wish I had better news to share with you today," she said.

"I’ve just received the news, and honestly, it has hit me harder than I can put into words. I need a little time to gather my thoughts and process everything before I share more about what comes next," she added.

Tan said her anticipated participation in the international pageant meant more to her than competing for a crown, as it would have given her the opportunity to represent her country on the global stage.

"This journey was never just about a crown or a competition. It was about the opportunity to carry Singapore’s name onto an international stage, to share our culture, our stories, and the spirit of a small nation with big dreams," she said.

"That is what made this opportunity so meaningful to me," she added.

Despite the setback, the beauty queen thanked her supporters for their encouragement, saying their messages reminded her that she was not facing the difficult moment alone.

"To everyone who has sent me kind messages, offered your encouragement, and believed in me, thank you. Even in a moment when I’m still finding the words, your support reminds me that I’m not standing here alone," Tan said.

While she admitted that she was still processing the development, Tan maintained that the situation would not diminish her determination to represent Singapore.

"I may not know what the next chapter holds, but one thing I know for certain is that this will not make me falter. If anything, it has made me more determined to show the world what Singapore is capable of," she said.

Tan emphasized that representing her country went beyond being given an opportunity to compete, pointing to the people, values and national pride behind the title.

"Because representing Singapore was never just about being given a stage. It is about what we carry in our hearts, the people who stand behind us, and the courage to keep going even when the path ahead changes unexpectedly," she said.

Singapore's reported decision not to participate comes ahead of the 75th Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to be held in Puerto Rico next month.

RELATED: Miss Universe 2026: 6 Southeast Asian nations will not participate

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