Pia Wurtzbach enters politics after Miss Universe 2015 reign; Angers activits following pro-US base stand

By Precious del Valle / Jan 18, 2016 10:35 AM EST

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach admitted that she wanted to enter politics after her reign. She, however, added that returning to showbiz will be her first priority.

Speaking in a press conference with the Filipino community in New York, via GMA News Online, Wurtzbach shared that joining politics had crossed her mind a couple of times.

"Politics? Why not? I'm not closing my doors. I think that I have much to learn. I have to get the right qualifications for it, of course," Wurtzbach explained.

During the question and answer portion of Miss Universe, several politicians, analysts and activists were surprised when she answered that she did not see a problem with the United States' military presence in the country.

Wurtzbach explained that the US and the Philippines had always had a good relationship, adding that Filipinos were always welcoming of Americans and their culture. An answer that did not sit well with several activists, especially after US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton was convicted with homicide for killing a transgender woman.

On Twitter, former politician Teddy Casiño posted that Wurtzbach could have at least acknowledged that there are certain issues that needed to be addressed in terms of increasing the US military bases in the Philippines.

Many, on the other hand, wondered why the organizers allowed such a loaded question to be asked in the competition. They pointed out that Wurtzbach retorted to giving a safe answer, thinking that it may affect her chances of winning the crown had she spoken against the US.

In the interview, Wurtzbach shared that she knew that many were disappointed with her answer. She said that she respected their opinion and added that there will be a right time and a right place to talk about the issue.

Nevertheless, most congratulated Wurtzbach for her win. They held that they remained proud to have another Filipina took home the crown after more than 42 years.

In the meantime, Wurtzbach held that she will focus all her attention in fulfilling her duties as Miss Universe 2015. After her reign, she shared that she was planning on returning to the Philippines and pursue a career in acting.