The Filipino-American singer and songwriter Bruno Mars and broadway singer-actress Lea Salonga will not be performing on the 65th Miss Universe at the Mall of Asia Area in Pasay City on Jan. 30. The Philippine Department of Tourism undersecretary revealed that the Bruno Mars will not be performing for the beauty pageant.
On Jan. 15, Tourism Undersecretary Kat de Castro told DZMM in a radio interview that Bruno Mars wanted to come, however, he has a world tour to focus on. The singer's agent kept on reminding him that he needs to focus on his proper rehearsals for the world tour.
Last week, the Department of Tourism unveiled on Twitter that superstars Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo Mañalac, Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera and Jed Madela will have their spots on the stage as guest performers. It is pretty sure that the show will let the world enjoy by ensuring the artists to perform are very well-known.
Moreover, the Lea Salonga quickly responded the claims on the social media by tweeting to her fans that she has not been booked to perform at the pageant and the Broadway singer will already be out of the country. It seems that someone is circulating it by mistake.
Last November, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo revealed in the previous interviews that a well-known international artist with Filipino roots will perform during the Miss Universe. That was the main cause that Bruno Mars named was quickly speculated on the list. During those times, Teo neither confirmed nor denied.
"The singer from America is a very famous celebrity with Filipino blood," said Teo.
According to the SunStar Manila that Steve Harvey was confirmed to be the host of the 65th Miss Universe. The American comedian is speculated to arrive in Manila on Jan. 22.
Undersecretary de Castro said that the pageant is expecting one group and one singer to perform. The Miss Universe Organization will reveal the performers and the judges after the courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte. The beautiful candidates will have it on Jan. 23.