Caloocan's Arianne Villareal breaks silence following viral 'butterfly moment' in Miss Grand Philippines prelims
Caloocan City bet Arianne Villareal breaks her silence about the viral "butterfly moment" during the evening gown segment of the Miss Grand Philippines 2025 preliminary round held last Sunday, Aug. 17, in Okada, Manila.
On her Facebook account, the beauty queen said that her intention to include real butterflies in her presentation was never to cause harm, as she often sees the insect released during weddings and special occasions, "a gesture of hope, freedom, and transformation."
"When I stepped on stage, my intention was to bring that same symbolism of metamorphosis and positivity," she wrote.
Villareal added, "It came from a place of creativity and meaning, never with the intention to cause harm."
She emphasized that she understands and respects the criticism she received, as pageantry is about "learning, evolving, and celebrating individuality."
"This experience reminded me that expression can come in many meaningful ways," she said.
Villareal reminds the public that just like a butterfly, pageant queens, "no matter how others see us, we can always grow, transform, and spread our wings with grace."
"All of us, your Grand Sisters, are giving our very best to put up a good fight and to make our cities, provinces, and communities proud. We are more than ready, full of excitement, and looking forward to seeing you all at the Finals," the beauty queen said.
"This is Arianne Villareal, Miss Grand Philippines Caloocan City, sharing nothing but happiness, positivity, and love to everyone," she concluded.
'Butterflies are living creatures, not props'
The statement came after Villareal drew flak on social media, where many users noted that the incident is "disappointing" and "deeply concerning."
"Butterflies are living creatures, not props. Using them in an evening gown is not only inappropriate but it is also unethical and irrelevant. As someone in pageantry, every choice you make reflects not only on you but also on the values you represent. That's why accountability matters here," one user noted.
"If only animals can make people as props, how would we feel," another user added.
Others defended the beauty queen, encouraging her to ignore the bashers and reminding her that it is never too late to be accountable.
"I hope this becomes a chance for reflection, remain receptive to constructive criticism, and distinguish it from mere bashing. Above all, take accountability and apologize rather than justify," a user wrote in the comment section.
They added, "It's never too late to be accountable and show what it really means to be Miss Grand, not just someone with a grand presence for people, but also someone with a grand heart for all living beings we share this world with."
During the grand coronation night on Aug. 24, CJ Opiaza will crown her successor, who will then represent the country in Miss Grand International on Oct. 18.
Aside from the Miss Grand International Philippines title, candidates are also vying for other crowns such as Miss Asia Pacific International Philippines, Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas, and Face of Beauty International Philippines.
Pageant fans can stream the coronation night via the GrandPH TV YouTube Channel.