You might just find yourself completely smitten with this beauty. Hailing from the Philippines, she’s got the kind of goddess-like charm that can stop you in your tracks. And if you don’t think she’s stunning… well, my friend, you might want to get your eyes checked—because she could very well be the most breathtaking sight you’ll come across today (or even this week).
Rabiya Mateo is more than just a beauty queen—she’s an influencer with a magnetic presence that can keep you glued to your screen for far longer than you intended.
Who is Rabiya Mateo
Rabiya Occeña Mateo isn’t just a pretty face—she’s a powerhouse of brains, talent, and beauty. This Filipina stunner took home the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 crown and went on to proudly represent the country at the 69th Miss Universe pageant. And just to prove she’s the full package, she also graduated cum laude with a degree in Physical Therapy. Beauty, brains, and a crown? Now that’s what you call the ultimate triple threat.
Her Early Life
Rabiya Occeña Mateo was born on November 14, 1996, the daughter of an Indian-American father and a Filipina mother. Her parents eventually went their separate ways, and Rabiya grew up in humble circumstances—proof that you don’t need a silver spoon to shine like gold.
She pursued a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy at Iloilo Doctors’ College, showing early on that she had both brains and ambition. By 2020, she was in Manila, not just chasing her dreams but helping others chase theirs—working as a lecturer and review coordinator at a review center. Beauty queen, brainiac, and teacher? That’s a résumé that deserves its own crown.
Career Journey
Rabiya Mateo’s journey to the crown started in her hometown, where she represented Iloilo City at Miss Universe Philippines 2020. She earned that spot after winning Miss Iloilo Universe 2020 at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center—a victory that would set the stage for her national triumph.
On coronation night, she not only walked away with the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 title, crowned by outgoing queen Gazini Ganados, but also snagged the Best in Swimsuit award. From there, she carried the Philippine flag all the way to Miami, Florida, to compete at Miss Universe 2020. A year later, on September 30, 2021, she passed the crown to Beatrice Gomez at the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 pageant in Bohol.
But Rabiya’s story didn’t stop at pageantry—it was just getting a sequel. She made her acting debut in Ngisngis, part of Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’s spooky annual special Gabi ng Lagim. Shortly after, she signed with GMA Network on November 18, 2021, joining their roster of talents. She went on to play supporting roles in dramas like Agimat ng Agila (2022), Royal Blood (2023), and Makiling (2024), and popped up in fan-favorite anthologies such as Wish Ko Lang!, Magpakailanman, and Tadhana.
Her charm also lit up the hosting scene. In 2022, she co-hosted the opening ceremony of NCAA Season 97 and became one of the original hosts of the daily variety game show TiktoClock alongside Pokwang and Kim Atienza. After her contract ended in 2024, she didn’t take long to find her next stage—becoming a regular on the legendary gag show Bubble Gang, almost a year after first making audiences laugh as a guest.
Facts and Trivia
On September 30, 2021, Rabiya Mateo passed the Miss Universe Philippines crown to Beatrice Luigi Gomez of Cebu City. But just before the big handover, Rabiya unexpectedly stole the spotlight for a different reason—she tripped on the hem of her long thigh-slit gown and took a tumble during her final walk.
The moment quickly made the rounds in the media, with many noting the irony: Rabiya’s last walk as Miss Universe Philippines 2020 ended with a fall… and just three days later, Tracy Maureen Perez’s very first walk as Miss World Philippines 2021 ended the same way. Talk about a slip in tradition.
Rabiya Mateo Photos
Join her over 2 million followers on Instagram for her latest lifestyle content.
And do visit our Rabiya Mateo page for more of her super gorgeous pictures.
