PHL's Janine Tugonon is 'our winner,' Palace says

Malacañang on Thursday congratulated Miss Philippines Janine Mari Tugonon for winning first runner up in the Miss Universe pageant on Thursday (PHL time). “In the hearts of our countrymen; she is our winner, our Miss Philippines,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press statement. By winning first runner-up, Tugonon held up the country’s banner and showed the world, once again, the grace, sophistication, and beauty that Filipinas possess, Valte added. “With the victory of Ms. Tugonon, we find even more proof of the exceptional characteristics of Filipinas and Filipinos to be truly world-class,” she said. Valte noted how Filipinos support Tugonon from the time she won the Binibining Pilipinas contest to representing the Philippines on the Miss Universe stage. Meanwhile, Vice President Jejomar Binay said "Janine's win in the Miss Universe pageant is a triumph for the Filipino people and the perfect way to end the year. The charm, grace, and wit she exuded during the pageant is proof that we Filipinos can stand out in the global arena." "She has captured the hearts of the judges, our kababayans, and the people around the world who watched the pageant. Truly, she is the epitome of beauty, brains, and  Filipina empowerment," Binay said in a statement. Tugonon's victory is the closest the country has come to winning the crown since Miriam Quiambao in 1999. Miss USA Olivia Culpo is this year's Miss Universe. The other top winners are:

• Irene Sofiá Esser Quintero, Venezuela (2nd runner up)
• Renae Ayris, Australia (3rd runner up)
• Gabriela Markus, Brazil (4th runner up).