Former Ilocos Sur governor and businessman Luis "Chavit" Singson is willing to mount another Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines provided that the government will share in the expenses the second time around.

"Kaya natin basta tumulong ang gobyerno. Medyo hirap kami kasi first time na walang tulong ang gobyerno," Singson said.

(We can do it again as long as the government will help us. We had a hard time hosting it because the government did not help with the expenses.)

Singson said he spent around $15 million to make the event possible in the country after President Rodrigo Duterte refused to shell out public funds for the international beauty competition.

Other business giants including the SM group, Okada Manila, Philippine Airlines, and San Miguel Corporation also shouldered expenses for the candidates and staff air fare and accommodation, as well as in mounting ancillary events.

"Kung tutulong ang gobyerno, walang problema, madali lang. Pero kung hindi tutulong ang gobyerno ulit, mag-iisip na ako," Singson said.

(If the government will help, there will be no problem, it would be easy. But if they won't help with the expenses again, I have to think twice about it.)

"Maganda magsakripisyo tayong lahat because I consider this as an investment," he added.

(It would be good if all of us would sacrifice because I consider this as an investment.)

Tourism USec. Kat De Castro did not comment about the government's willingness to spend money for the pageant, but said Duterte is willing to host the Miss Universe in the Philippines once more before his term ends.