“For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language, it’s about being able to influence and inspire other people. So, whatever language you have, as long as your heart is deserving and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”
This was Janine Tugonon’s quick and witty reply to the final question fielded to her by judge Nigel Barker when asked, “As an international ambassador, do you think that speaking English should be prerequisite for Miss Universe? Why or Why not?”
The world suddenly stopped. Millions of eyes witnessed the Philippines’ pride and bet to the pageant. The Philippine flag-bearing contingent to Filipina well-wishers inside Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada burst into wild applause.
Each and every Filipino citizen witnessed the breath-taking question and answer segment. Tugonon has proven once again to the whole world the grace, sophistication and beauty that Filipinas possess. She captured the hearts of the judges.
Tugonon, a 23-yearl old stunner from Balanga, Bataan graduated Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy cum laude at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) wowed the Las Vegas crowd for her witty reply to the final question.
Remarkable accomplishment indeed! Yes, she began as a seed, a drive to succeed. Filipina beauty
stands out once again in the international beauty arena. She was only Asian candidate who made it to the top ten, wearing a powder blue gown during the competition.
Just like any other Philippine bets in the Miss Universe pageant, Tugonon becomes the second Miss Philippines first runner-up in the prestigious pageant after Miriam Quiambao, who won the honor in 1999.
Tugonon represented the best of what the country has to offer- beauty, talent and a capability at par with the world’s best.
Only two other Filipinas have won the Miss Universe title: Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973. Since then, the Philippines has only won three third runners-up and two fourth runners-up while eight became semi-finalists.
“If I win, it’s like I give the Philippines hope and happiness and a Christmas gift this coming December 25.” This is what she said during the pre-pageant interview of all the 89 contestants competing in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview.
Words: A.C. Lacsina
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