MJ Lastimosa ‘filled with love’ despite Miss Universe upset

Screengrab from MJ Lastimosa’s Instagram account

MANILA, Philippines—Despite an upsetting loss in the Miss Universe 2014 pageant on Monday (Philippine time), Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa said she was “filled with love” and very proud to be a Filipino.

Lastimosa said she was grateful to her supporters in a post on Instagram shortly after the competition in Doral City, Florida, ended.

“So proud to be a Filipino! Man, can’t express how grateful I am to everyone! I’m filled with love right now! Love you all! God bless us! Mabuhay!” Lastimosa said in the caption of her photo in a pink Yamamay swimsuit.

Lastimosa’s loss marked the first time in five years that a Filipina was not included in the prestigious pageant’s final five after Ariella Arida in 2013, Janine Tugonon in 2012, Shamcey Supsup in 2011 and Venus Raj in 2010.

Meanwhile, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. said Lastimosa showcased the Filipina’s “beauty and compassion” on the world stage.

“The Binibining Pilipinas Charities Incorporated would like to congratulate Ms. Mary Jean Lastimosa for her performance in the 63rd Miss Universe Pageant held in Doral, Miami USA. Title or no title, her participation in the pageant’s global discussions on peace, cultural exchange and other charity initiatives has beautifully showcased the Filipina’s beauty, intellect and compassion,” the statement read.

Miss Colombia’s Paulina Vega was crowned the winner of the 63rd edition of the pageant, besting 87 other candidates. AJH

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