Puerto Rico Senate questions tourism funds for Miss Universe

The Puerto Rico Senate is questioning the Department of Tourism regarding the management of public funds allocated for the Miss Universe pageant. Senator Marissa Jiménez reported that the department failed to provide complete documentation, specifically noting that several invoices are ambiguous.

Jiménez highlighted that certain documents only list vague descriptions such as ‘advance for Miss Universe event’ for amounts ranging from $50,000 to $75,000, without detailing specific uses. The Senate has granted the department an additional 10 days to present more precise documentation.

Concerns have also been raised following allegations by businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil regarding the potential diversion of funds. According to existing contracts, payments were intended for JKN Universe LLC, though the documentation presented has included other additional corporations.