Rabiya Occeña Mateo (Hiligaynon: [ɾaˈbija ɔˈseɲa mɐˈteɔ]; born November 14, 1996) is a Filipino model, host, actress, entrepreneur and beauty pageant titleholder who was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2020.
[9][10] She attended the Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy Program at the Iloilo Doctors' College and graduated cum laude.
"[16]During the first question and answer portion of the Top 5 finalists, she was asked: "If you can create a new paper currency with the image of any Filipino on it, dead or alive, who would it be and why?"
[22] At the national costume competition, Mateo wore an ensemble made by the late avant-garde designer Rocky Gathercole.
[25] It was supposed to be complete with an extravagant headpiece by veteran jeweler Manny Halasan that symbolized the Philippine flag’s sun, but she was not able to wear it because it was too big on her head and kept falling off.
It is a yellow long gown paired with what appeared to be sun-inspired earrings which represents the sun, which symbolizes happiness, strength & vitality.
[39][40] On September 30, 2021, Mateo crowned Beatrice Luigi Gomez of Cebu City as her successor at the end of the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 pageant.
A few minutes before, Mateo unintentionally garnered the attention of the media because she tripped on the hem of her long thigh-slit gown and fell during her final walk.
[42][43] Mateo made her acting debut in Ngisngis, an installment of Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho's horror special Gabi ng Lagim.
[45][46] Mateo portrayed supporting roles in several GMA dramas such as the second season of Agimat ng Agila (2022),[47] Royal Blood (2023), and Makiling (2024).