Miss Universe Panama Italy Mora/MISS PANAMA UNIVERSE FACEBOOK PHOTO

Italy Mora, the erstwhile Panamanian delegate to the 2024 Miss Universe pageant in Mexico, has issued a statement about her truncated run in the international competition, citing a “severe measure” imposed by the pageant organization for a lapse that she committed.

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) had earlier said that it “regrets to announce the withdrawal of Panama’s candidate from the Miss Universe 2024 pageant. This decision has been taken after a thorough evaluation by our disciplinary commission.”

Mora said she learned about this on Nov. 1. “As I was preparing to attend the gala evening, the organization informed me of its decision that I should leave the competition,” she said in her statement in Spanish.

The 19-year-old Panamanian lass said the organization decided on her early exit because she had left her room. Mora admitted to it, but said she only did so to put on makeup and collect personal items.

“Unfortunately, I trusted and followed instructions, without considering the consequences. However, I want to express that I consider it was a severe measure and that, instead, it could have been resolved with a dialogue or a warning,” Mora continued in Spanish.

Talks circulating online have indicated a tiff between Mora and another delegate, which apparently turned violent. But no official accounts of such an incident have surfaced, and no other party has shed light on the matter.

Mora said the abrupt dashing of her Miss Universe dream was emotionally difficult for her, “especially because of the time, effort, resources and support of the people who made my preparation to represent my country possible.”

She also addressed her countrymen, and told them that she has always proudly represented Panama, and that she deeply regrets not being able to continue in the competition. MUO had awarded the Panama franchise to a new holder for this year’s competition after the previous licensee dropped the partnership last year.

“With this statement, I also hope to clarify any false information that may be circulating about my departure, and ask for respect and privacy as I go through this time,” Mora said.

The 2024 Miss Universe pageant, its 73rd edition, has amassed the biggest haul in the competition’s history with more than 120 participants from countries and territories around the world.

Reigning queen Sheynnis Palacios will crown her successor at the coronation show at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City on Nov. 16 (Nov. 17 in Manila). Model and tourism management degree holder Chelsea Manalo is representing the Philippines in the competition.

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