Zashely Alicea Rivera

Former Miss Universe ⁣Puerto⁢ Rico Jeniffer Colón Apologizes for⁣ Comments on ⁣Pageant ⁣Finalist, Faces Backlash adn Dismissal

San Juan, Puerto⁣ Rico – ​Former Miss Universe⁢ Puerto Rico ‌Jeniffer‌ Colón has⁣ issued a ⁢public⁤ apology after making⁢ what she described as “inappropriate” and “mocking” comments about the makeup‍ of a ⁣finalist in the recent Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2024 pageant. The controversy led ‌to⁣ her dismissal from the​ television program⁣ “Pégate al Mediodia.”

Colón’s apology, released digitally, stated, “I want to express, from the bottom of my heart, my most‍ sincere ⁣apologies for the statements I made in the most recent episode of the podcast in ‍which I participated. I recognize that some of my comments were inappropriate and caused discomfort. I regret not having been more careful with my words.”

The​ remarks sparked immediate ‍criticism,including a public rebuke from Kiara Liz ortega,Miss Universe Puerto Rico ​2018,who stated,”If you⁣ won,you have no need to ⁣humiliate‌ or throw ‘shade’ at another⁢ candidate ‌who also ​fought with all her heart to achieve her dream. The true satisfaction is in looking back and ‌knowing that you competed⁢ with respect, without trampling on anyone.​ As at the end of the day, a crown does not define who you are, and your values ​​do.”

Colón also addressed perceptions that ⁤the Miss Universe Puerto Rico organization did not ‍initially support her candidacy, acknowledging communication‌ with the ‍board throughout the competition, including up to the final night⁢ in Mexico. She further suggested a potential⁤ restructuring of the organization, proposing a collaboration between herself and magali⁣ Febles to lead the local‌ franchise in pursuit of a sixth Miss Universe crown‍ for Puerto Rico.

“In this case, I failed to meet my standard, and I take duty for my actions.I am committed ‌to learning from this experience ‍and I thank the people who, with ‍respect,⁢ pointed out my ‍mistake​ with their constructive criticism that helps me grow,” colón added. ⁣

She⁣ concluded by expressing her commitment ⁣to “continue building from humility, with the intention of‍ regaining the trust and ​respect of those who‌ listen to ⁤me, especially my family from the⁤ Miss Universe Puerto Rico organization,⁣ who always ‍helped and cared for me, with sincere regret and desire to improve.”