MANILA, Philippines – Even with heavy luggage and hardly any sleep, Janine Tugonon strolled through the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport with a big smile on her face reserved especially for the Filipino fans and well-wishers who came to welcome her. 

Wearing 5-inch heels and a tiny red dress, Janine even demonstrated her Cobra walk in between transporting her luggage. Her poise, grace and confidence leave hardly anyone in doubt that she will perform well in the pageant.

In the days leading to the live show on December 20 (Manila time), she and the 88 other beauties competing for the Miss Universe crown will go through a gruelling selection process in which their beauty, brains and personality will all play a key part.

What does the pageant have in store for Janine? Rappler fills you in on the Miss Universe Pageant 2012 scheduled events.

Miss Universe Pageant 2012 calendar of events (Manila time):

December 5

Last day of arrival of 2012 Miss Universe contestants at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada

December 7

Welcome Event: Meet and greet all 2012 Miss Universe contestants at the mezzanine floor of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino 

December 9

Start of rehearsals of the contestants for the live show on December 20

December 14

Preliminary Competition: Contestants compete in the evening gown and swimsuit rounds. You can watch the livestream on the Miss Universe homepage: www.missuniverse.com

December 15

Miss Universe National Costume Show: Contestants don their elaborate costumes

December 19

Online voting for the 2012 Miss Universe Fan Vote ends. The winner will be announced during the live show.

December 20

Winner of 2012 Miss Universe Pageant is crowned by 2011 winner Leila Lopes of Angola. Rappler will live blog.

– Rappler.com