A netizen created a layout of a P2,000 paper bill featuring the late senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago.
The paper bill’s creator Mikel Sarate was inspired by Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo’s answer during the pageant’s Q&A portion on Sunday.
Sarate said the Miriam Defensor-Santiago paper bill design is red because it signifies the power of a phenomenal woman like the late senator. The bill also featured the Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo, which symbolizes the love and devotion of the Ilonggos. It also showed a hablon, which is considered as an indigenous fabric; the Rafflesia speciosa; and Santiago’s “medal of honor.”
But Rabiya Meteo was given the crown of Miss Univers Philippines 2020, Rabiya, and the rest of the Top 5 were asked two questions each. The contestants backstage individually picked the first one, and the second was given to them on-stage.
Netizen designs Miriam Defensor-Santiago paper bill
Mateo’s first question was, “If you will create a paper currency with the image of any Filipino on it, dead or alive, who will it be and why?”
“If I will be given the chance, I will use the face of Miriam Defensor-Santiago. For those who don’t know, she was an Ilongga, but what I admired about her is that she used her knowledge, her voice to serve the country. And I want to be somebody like her, somebody who puts her heart, her passion into action, and after all, she is the best president that we never had,” she said.
Her second question was, “This pandemic has made clear our priorities, essential and non-essential. Where do pageants stand in this time of crisis?”
“As a candidate, I know I am not just the face of Iloilo City, but I am here carrying hope as a symbol of light in the darkest times. And as of the moment, I want to help my community. I want to use my strength to make an impact. And that is the essence of beauty pageants. It gives us the power to make a difference,” she answered.
Get the full list of the Top 5’s questions and answers here.