Why Gloria Diaz has concerns about Maxine winning

Gloria Diaz clarified her earlier statement about Philippines bet Maxine Medina having a “one in a million chance” of winning the prestigious international pageant, which will crown a new queen on January 30. 

Diaz, who won the crown in 1969, believes Medina has the grace and beauty deserving to win the coveted title. However, she believes it would look unfair if the representative of the host country will win the crown.

“I don't think I've ever heard of a country hosting and then sila ang nanalo. It doesn't seem very hospitable,” she said.

Diaz added, “Siyempre, kailangang mag-first runner-up (si Maxine).”

Aside from being home to three Miss Universe titlists — Gloria Diaz (1969), Margarita Moran-Floirendo (1973), and Pia Wurtzbach (2015)—the Philippines has also hosted the pageant twice before, once in 1974 and again in 1994.

Exactly a week before the Grand Coronation Night, the candidates from all over the world continues to be busy with pre-pageant activities, including a courtesy call at the Malacañang Palace today, January 23.

Watch the 65th Miss Universe coronation event live on GMA on January 30, beginning at 8 a.m. —Bianca Rose Dabu/JST, GMA News