MANILA – (UPDATE) The Miss Universe fashion show in Davao has been cancelled, Tourism Undersecretary Kat de Castro announced on Wednesday.

Explaining their decision, De Castro wrote in a Facebook post that they want to “prevent controversies that may arise from the statement made by the local designers of Davao City.”

This after the Davao Fashion and Design Council (DFDC) criticized the decision of the Miss Universe hosting committee to have industry veteran Renee Salud create the outfits of the candidates for the fashion show.

“Call it proper and befitting, the Mindanaoan designers have all the rights and benefits to best represent the distinctive fashion and style of Mindanao in the first place,” the statement from the group read.

• READ: Davao designers ‘insulted’ by Miss U organizing committee

In an interview with ABS-CBN News’ Mario Dumaual, Salud expressed his sadness over the cancellation of the Miss Universe fashion show in Davao.

He is still hoping, however, that the event will be held in another city such as General Santos or Cagayan de Oro.

Aztec Barba, head of the DFDC, said the group respects the decision of the Miss Universe committee.

“However, the Davao visit of the Miss Universe candidates should push through even without the cultural show event. The candidates should not be deprived of the experience and distinct hospitality of Dabawenyos,” Barba said.