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.”