MANILA – Filipino businessman and former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson dropped a bombshell on January 2, 2026, claiming that the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is no longer owned by its current co-owners—Thai businesswoman Anne Jakrajutatip and Mexican entrepreneur Raúl Rocha Cantú. Singson’s announcement, made via a Facebook post featuring a meeting with former MUO Vice President Shawn McClain and his daughter Congresswoman Richelle Singson, comes amid escalating legal troubles for both Jakrajutatip and Rocha, who face arrest warrants in their home countries.
Singson stated bluntly: “For everyone’s information: MUO is not owned anymore by Anne Jakrajutatip or Raul Rocha Cantú. In fact, both have arrest warrants against them!” He described the discussion as a “good chat” about the pageant’s future, hinting at ongoing acquisition talks—potentially positioning himself or partners as rescuers for the embattled brand.
Background on the Ownership Crisis
- Anne Jakrajutatip: Sentenced in December 2025 to two years in prison (without suspension) in Thailand for fraud related to misleading investors about her company JKN Global Group’s finances. She is reportedly a fugitive, with local media suggesting she fled to Mexico.
- Raúl Rocha Cantú: Facing investigations in Mexico for alleged organized crime, drug/arm trafficking, and fuel theft. His bank accounts were frozen, and an arrest warrant is active, rendering him effectively unable to manage operations.
The duo acquired MUO in phases: Jakrajutatip’s JKN bought it in 2022 for $20 million, then sold 50% to Rocha’s Legacy Holding Group in 2023-2024 for $16 million. Legal woes have paralyzed leadership, with creditors and former executives circling.
Singson’s claim—while unverified by official MUO statements—aligns with reports that arrest warrants and asset freezes have de facto removed Jakrajutatip and Rocha from control. Talks with ex-executives like McClain suggest a creditor-led or buyer-driven transition to stabilize the organization ahead of its 75th anniversary in 2026.
Fans and insiders speculate Singson (who hosted Miss Universe 2016 in PH) could emerge as a savior, especially given his prior interest in acquiring the franchise.
The pageant’s future hangs in balance—stay tuned for official confirmations.
Ownership Timeline Snapshot:
| Year/Event | Owner/Change |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Anne Jakrajutatip/JKN acquires full MUO |
| 2023-2024 | Sells 50% to Raúl Rocha Cantú/Legacy Holding |
| Late 2025 | Legal troubles: Warrants, freezes |
| Jan 2026 | Singson claims effective change in control |