Rabiya Mateo opens up on returning to med school: ‘I’ve been praying for this’

Former Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo has announced she will go back to medical school, describing the decision as a lifelong dream and a personal calling.

During her appearance as a special guest on episode 25 of DJ Chacha’s YouTube podcast vlog, Rabiya announced,  “I’m so happy to share this to everybody, to let you guys know that I’m gonna go back to med school. And I've wanted to become a doctor ever since.

“I really want to understand my situation right now. And aside from that, gusto ko din makatulong overall.” She emphasized that this choice is motivated by purpose: “This industry pays well, pero I really want to use my knowledge to help people.”

Filipino model and actress spoke about facing online criticism and remaining resilient, particularly in her pageantry career, which she pursued to support her family despite negative comments.

Her decision to continue her studies comes after a deeply challenging period in her life. On her Facebook page, Rabiya, 29, revealed that in 2025 she was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder with Anxious Distress. “I had my several rounds of medication. I left the country for 3 months so I won’t get triggered by people who have no idea what I’ve been going through,” she shared, together with a medical certificate to confirm her diagnosis.

In the same post, she recounted the daily struggles of her mental health journey. The loss of Emman Atienza, which deeply affected television host Kim Atienza and his family, encouraged her to persevere. “I don't want my Mama to experience the same thing,” she said.

Mateo also took the opportunity to raise awareness about mental health and online bullying. She explained that while she initially intended to keep her struggles private, she decided to speak out to help stop online bullying.

Acknowledging the sacrifices ahead, Mateo shared she has prepared financially to pursue her studies. “I think I was able to save enough. May mga investments na din ako, some businesses that would support my studies at ito po talaga iyong gusto ko. I’ve been praying for this.”

She valued faith for guiding her path, saying it felt like a calling: “Feeling ko din, siguro isa din sa mga reason kung bakit nangyayari itong lahat.”

Reflecting on her personal journey, Mateo noted the result of stepping away from showbiz. “Feeling ko, nahanap ko din ‘yung sarili ko. Iyong Rabiya a few years ago, sa Rabiya ngayon, I’m doing so much better. And I would also say that fame is not everything.”

Before entering pageants and the entertainment industry, Rabiya graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Iloilo Doctors' College in 2018.