Rabiya Mateo, magbabalik-eskwela para tuparin ang pangarap na maging doktor

Published 28 Feb 2026 at 9:22 PM

by Josh Medina

4 min read

Former Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo announces she will return to medical school
She cites a lifelong dream and desire to better understand her mental health as key reasons for her decision
Rabiya secured financial stability through investments and businesses, allowing her to pursue her studies
She previously opened up about her battle with depression and online bullying, sharing the challenges she faced in 2025

Narito na ang paghahanap sa KAMI! Basahin ang mga balita tungkol sa iyong paboritong mga bituin sa pamamagitan lamang ng pag-type ng kanilang pangalan sa search bar!

Former Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo revealed in a recent YouTube vlog that she is set to return to school to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.

In an interview with DJ Chacha, she shared, "It's a calling and I'm so happy to share this to everybody that I'm gonna go back to med school. And I wanted to become a doctor ever since."

Before entering pageantry and showbiz, Rabiya graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Iloilo Doctors' College in 2018.

Read also

Andi Eigenmann, binanatan ang poser niya: "Fix your grammar if you want to pose as me"

She explained that aside from fulfilling a lifelong ambition, her interest in better understanding her own mental health also influenced her decision.

"Siguro isa rin sa fact because I really want to understand my situation right now. And aside from that, gusto ko rin makatulong overall," she said. "I really wanna use my knowledge to help people."

Rabiya noted that she now feels prepared to take this next step after establishing financial stability through her investments and business ventures.

Like and share our Facebook posts to support the KAMI team! Share your thoughts in the comments. We love reading them!

"I am also blessed na at least nandito na rin ako sa point ng life ko na I think I was able to save enough, may mga investments na rin ako, some businesses na would support my studies. At ito po talaga 'yung gusto ko, parang I have been praying for this," she remarked.

Earlier this year, Rabiya opened up about her mental health struggles, revealing that she was diagnosed with depression and anxious distress in 2025.

"Everyday was a struggle to survive. I almost deactivated everything and disappear to have a quiet and peaceful life. I fought hard and still fighting up until now," she said.

Read also

Ashley Ortega, emosyonal na inamin ang estado ng relasyon nila ng kanyang ina

She added that she initially wanted to keep her condition private but chose to speak out to raise awareness about the harmful effects of online bullying.

"Bullying needs to stop now. It causes harm more than you ever know!"

Rabiya’s decision to return to medical school marks a new chapter in her life, combining her professional ambitions with her commitment to mental health advocacy and helping others.

Rabiya Mateo first rose to national prominence after winning Miss Universe Philippines 2020, proudly representing Iloilo City before competing on the global Miss Universe stage. After her pageant career, she transitioned into acting, television, and brand endorsements, gradually establishing herself in the entertainment industry. Along the way, she has been vocal about self-love, perseverance, and mental health, earning recognition as an advocate for emotional wellness. Her openness about personal struggles has won her the respect of many fans.

Recently, Rabiya shared a heartfelt video montage reflecting both her lowest and happiest moments as a reminder that healing is a process and life can improve over time. The clip begins with her in tears before transitioning to scenes of travel, laughter, and bonding with children, symbolizing hope after hardship. The post came just weeks after she revealed her diagnosis of depression and anxious distress, giving the message a deeply personal and vulnerable edge.