Five reasons why we’re proud of MJ Lastimosa

By MARY LOUISE LIGUNAS

 

Miss Universe-Philippines Mary Jean Lastimosa may have not brought home the international crown but undoubtedly, she has brought great pride to the country.

 

Here, we count the reasons why we love and adore the Filipina beauty.

 

1. She’s family-oriented

One of the most admirable characteristics of Filipinos is that we keep close ties with family. MJ is no different as she dedicated her Miss Universe journey to her late uncle who took care of her and her siblings.

 

“One of my uncles decided to take care of us [when our parents left for Saudi Arabia]. He wasn’t able to survive cancer. I think now he’s in a better seat, watching me and he’s guiding me as my angel,” she said in her Miss Universe video.

 

2. She’s a fighter

 

If children would typically play outside their houses, MJ’s case was different as she grew up in Mindanao. Despite the difficulties and danger, she chose to do what she knew would be best for her.

 

“That changed my whole life. It was a war-torn area so I’ve seen a lot of chaos. I kind of fought for my education and really believed that I really need to finish because I wanted to make my parents proud,” she shared.

 

3. She’s proof that women are strong

 

Not only was she a scholar in college but she stood strong in a dominantly male course.

 

“I knew that I wanted engineering… All the men thought I wouldn’t be able to survive it because there would only be few numbers of women inside the classroom… I was really able to do it and that made me proud,” she noted.

 

4. She’s compassionate

 

This beauty knows how to get her hands dirty. On her Facebook page, she shared about organizing a charity event with the help of her friends.

 

“Visited some poorest of the poor areas and conducted medical mission, gave them clothes and food supplies. I love making my heart smile, and touching other people's heart. It’s priceless,” she recounted.

 

She also celebrated her birthday last November with the students of the Davao School for the Blind.

 

5. She has a grateful heart

When asked by the Miss Universe Organization how to describe her fans, she was at a loss for words. She’s thankful to be given so much love and support by her fellow Filipinos.

 

“I don’t even know how to describe my fans but they are the heartbeat of every representative that’s fighting for Miss Universe. They’re my source of strength right now. I cannot compare the Filipino fans to any other fans. I claim it, they are the best fans that Miss Universe could ever have,” she declared.