MANILA – The battle over the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) intensified on January 3, 2026, as co-owner Raul Rocha Cantú lashed out at Filipino businessman Luis “Chavit” Singson, branding him a “delusional fool” and threatening legal action. Rocha’s fiery Instagram Story came hours after Singson claimed MUO is “no longer owned” by Rocha or Thai co-owner Anne Jakrajutatip, amid ongoing acquisition rumors.
Rocha posted (in red text, over MUO’s ownership statement):
“I’m fed up with that delusional fool and his daughter making statements, dreaming of something he wouldn’t be able to achieve in a hundred years. Keep dreaming, my lawyers will put an end to your fairytales.”
Though unnamed, the jab clearly targeted Singson and his daughter, Congresswoman Richelle Singson, after their meeting with former MUO VP Shawn McClain fueled buyout speculation.
MUO issued an official denial, reaffirming ownership by Rocha and Jakrajutatip despite their legal woes (Jakrajutatip’s fraud conviction and fugitive status; Rocha’s frozen accounts and arrest warrant in Mexico).
Singson has expressed interest in acquiring the pageant, citing its troubles and his past hosting success (Miss Universe 2016 in PH). He previously said he’s “willing to lose money” for national pride.
The drama—amid MUO’s creditor pressures and leadership vacuum—raises questions about the pageant’s 75th anniversary in 2026.
Ownership Status Snapshot (As of Jan 2026):
| Figure | Status | Legal Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Raul Rocha Cantú | Co-owner (50%) | Arrest warrant (Mexico); accounts frozen |
| Anne Jakrajutatip | Co-owner (50%) | 2-year prison sentence (Thailand); fugitive |
| Chavit Singson | Potential buyer | In talks; denies current ownership claims |
The saga continues—watch for updates on any real sale or leadership shakeup.