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Miss Universe Philippines – Southern Leyte 2026 titleholder Renee Rose Patual withdraws before national media presentation, citing health concerns, lack of support and emotional strain.
Photo courtesy of Renee Rose Pascual Patual/FB
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Just hours before she was scheduled to face the national media, Miss Universe Philippines – Southern Leyte 2026 titleholder Renee Rose Pascual Patual made a decision that stunned pageant followers — she walked away.
In a lengthy personal statement, the provincial queen revealed that what was supposed to be the fulfillment of a dream had slowly turned into an emotional and physical struggle.
“I am formally closing this journey with a heavy heart, as it has been draining me and causing me stress to push through. This journey is NOT MY DREAM ANYMORE.”
For Patual, the title was never about glamour alone. She explained that her goal was simple: to represent her province proudly and with genuine support. Instead, she found herself carrying the burden alone.
“My dream is to represent our province with pride and dignity, receiving full support and love; however, it feels like I am the one chasing the support of those people.”
The weeks leading to the national competition were far from easy. Balancing a full-time job with pageant responsibilities meant little rest and constant pressure.
“The two months of preparation have been really challenging for me because I have a full-time job.”
“I honestly risk my health to pursue this journey because I am so busy. I sleep only two to four hours a day, which is not really beneficial, and that really affects my body now.”
Despite difficulties within the organization, she continued out of loyalty to her hometown.
“Despite the many issues circulating in our organization, I remain steadfast in supporting their efforts because this season is the first-ever Miss Universe in the province.”
She even financed parts of the preparation herself.
“I used my own money and the financial support of our LGU for the preparation. I am truly grateful to my town for the FULL SUPPORT and LOVE they have given me.”
Her arrival in Manila marked the breaking point. According to Patual, communication delays, tight deadlines and the lack of logistical support left her overwhelmed.
“I sent my WITHDRAWAL LETTER on February 10 because they don’t have updates, took a long time to respond to my messages, and I feel disrespected by their lack of communication.”
She described preparing for official activities without a team.
“IMAGINE, just the two of us here doing our best in Manila. NO TEAM AT ALL.”
Deadlines added further pressure.
“After signing the contract, I was briefed on the deadline requirements set by the national team, which shocked me because the deadline had already passed and I was given only two days to submit.”
The emotional toll became heavier each night.
“Crying every night is challenging to stop. I always think, ‘WHY DO I FEEL LIKE I AM FIGHTING THIS MUCH ALONE?’”
Ultimately, the candidate decided that continuing would cost her well-being.
“If it is affecting my physical, emotional and mental health, I give up on this title.”
“I want to choose my health and happiness and prioritize my peace.”
Her message ended not with anger, but gratitude.
“I am grateful for the people who continue to support me… Closing this chapter and move forward with life…”
Her withdrawal underscores a growing conversation in pageantry — that behind the gowns and spotlights are real people navigating pressure, expectations and personal limits. For Patual, the bravest walk she made was not on stage, but away from it.
