Jeff Albea, the visual artist who designed the trophies for Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) 2024, expressed his sentiments on social media after not allegedly getting paid by the organization.
"MISS UNIVERSE phils vanished into thin air. They refused to pay me for the trophies I designed and crafted for the coronation night," Albea said in a Facebook post on Monday.
"All the effort, dedication and passion I put in creating these pieces, ended up ignored and disregarded when payment was due," he added.
The artist said he will not accept any amount from the organization, but he hopes they learn from what happened.
" What I need now is for them to learn that ARTISTS DESERVE RESPECT. We pour our hearts and souls into our creations," he said.
"Our ideas don’t just appear from thin air just to work for an xdeal. They are the result of intense thought, deep emotions, and sleepless nights. Not to mention, opportunities missed, money and years spent honing our craft," he added.
Abela advised his fellow artists not to let their work be taken for granted.
MUP Statement
Meanwhile, the MUP organization vehemently denied Albea's allegations, as he allegedly has communication with its staff.
"We categorically deny that the MUPh Org. neither refused to pay, disregarded or ignored payment for the trophies. In accordance with the standard procedure of billing for suppliers to sponsors, MUPh needs proper documentation for the said transaction," said the organization in its official facebook page.
The MUP said they would pursue legal action "to address and resolve this unfounded accusation" while urging the public to refrain from spreading the misinformation.
