Rabiya Mateo: ‘I wanted to have the life my family deserves’

“I would always talk with my friends back in Iloilo just to keep myself grounded because the fame is overwhelming, to be honest,” she shares. “I always want to be reminded of the old Rabiya so that’s how I prepare mentally.”

“It’s been crazy, but I love it. It’s finally coming to my senses that I really won Miss Universe Philippines,” she starts.

Winning the crown is only the beginning of another battle as Rabiya is set to represent the Philippines in the international pageant scene.

“It’s tough and I would say that you’ll never be a hundred-percent ready with the pressure of being Miss Universe Philippines,” Rabiya admits.

“I’ve always wanted the crown but I wasn’t aware of the consequences. Once you’re there, there’s no turning back.”

Despite this, Rabiya handles the pressure with the grace and poise of a true queen.

Building a life her family deserves

The stunning Ilongga has always been open about her childhood. Rabiya was raised by her mother Christine who taught her to always forgive.

“I actually tell everybody that I’m not ashamed that I encountered poverty during my childhood, but I’m very competitive in life and I wouldn’t settle myself for that kind of situation. So, I studied really, really hard,” Rabiya shares.

Rabiya’s hard work paid off as she graduated cum laude and university valedictorian with a degree in Physical Therapy at Iloilo Doctors’ College in 2018.

“I wanted to have the life my family deserves. Instead of staying in Iloilo, I left my Mama and brother to work in a review center in Manila for two years. Even before Miss Universe Philippines, I was able to sustain my family — I was paying for my brother’s tuition fee and the rent,” Rabiya says.

With her grit and love for her family, it’s no wonder that Rabiya was able to breeze through her duties as this year’s queen.

“It’s all about believing in your dreams and having the support of your family. Right now, I feel like I wouldn’t be here without my mother,” she adds with a smile.

Essence of a loving home

Like every Filipino, Rabiya also believes in the importance of having a peaceful and family-friendly home.

“I want to have safety and security, I think that both should go hand-in-hand,” she explains. “Comfort, as well. It’s different when you’re staying in a place where you feel that you can sleep at night.”

A perfect enclave for victors and champions, The Velaris Residences is a premium masterpiece with masterfully designed and future-ready units.

This 45-storey luxury condominium is by RHK Land Corporation, a joint venture of international property development leader Hongkong Land and Philippine real estate giant Robinsons Land. Rising at a prime spot of Bridgetowne along the vibrant C5 corridor, this development is an artful marriage of intention and inspiration.

The property features a magnificent SkyClub that has interconnected entertainment facilities, a Japanese-inspired onsen, an Olympic-length infinity pool, a multipurpose gym, exclusive dining facilities, business lounge, events pavilion, kids’ playroom, and sprawling landscaped gardens. It offers one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units, terrace suites and penthouses tailored for any sophisticated homeseeker.

“I love the fact that their kitchen is really nice because it’s my favorite part of a home. And I’ve toured in their two-bedroom and single-bedroom spaces, and I can say that it’s a combination of lifestyle and comfort,” Rabiya shares.

Intentional design is the name of the game in this residential landmark. It’s the elegant art of making every homeowner at peace and at ease.

The Velaris Residences is located in Bridgetowne, Pasig City. For more details, visit thevelarisresidences.com.

Editor’s Note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring and educational content created by PhilSTAR L!fe in collaboration with brands like Velaris Residences.