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MANILA, Philippines – After the success of Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach in last year’s pageant, the Philippines is banking on Maria Mika Maxine Medina to do well after she was crowned the country’s representative to Miss Universe 2016 on Sunday, April 17. (WATCH: Miss Universe PH 2016 Maxine Medina’s Bb Pilipinas Q&A)
Twenty-five-year-old Maxine has been one of the favorites to win the title since the beginning of the competition. Let’s get to know her more:
1. She’s got a background in interior design. According to Maxine’s profile courtesy of Binibining Pilipinas, she graduated from the Philippine School of Interior Design and De La Salle-College of St Benilde. She has experience designing residential condominiums.
2. She is member of the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP). Like her 2016 batchmates Kylie Verzosa (Bb Pilipinas International) and Jennifer Ruth Hammond (Bb Pilipinas Intercontinental), Maxine is a member of PMAP, an organization formed by top models back in the late ’80s. Members of the organization include models Kelsey Merritt, Katarina Rodriguez, Miss World Philippines 2014 Valerie Weigmann, and more.
3. Maxine tried for the 2012 edition but didn’t push through. According to fashion designer and Aces and Queens fashion consultant Bessie Besana, Maxine was supposed to be part of the 2012 roster of candidates but didn’t push through due to contractual obligations. This was also confirmed by Aces and Queens mentor Jonas Gaffud on his Instagram post.
“We made Maxine join in 2012 but had to be disqualified because of contracts from commercials. Also, she was not ready that time. For 3 years after that we have been pushing her to join. It was Direk Jeff Jeturian who discovered her. So finally when she said yes this year, we were all elated,” he said.
Pageant blogger Norman Tinio was able to talk to Maxine about her journey. In her interview with Norman posted last April 15, Maxine said: “My journey in this competition is unexpected. Yes, I’m pressured and everyone is competitive but I learned how to manage myself to be ‘just myself’ and enjoy each and every moment I have in this competition. The friendships built, the travels, exploring the different cultures of other contestants and the events. Again, [there’s] nothing more rewarding than having the feeling of being with your friends as sisters journeying together for a goal!”
She also said: “The best advice that I can give is to be true to yourself. Grow gradually and gracefully ’cause when you learn to love yourself all the colors would come out in you. Keep in mind that you are making your own history, your own victory.”
4. Her aunt is also a former beauty queen. Maxine is not the only beauty queen in the family. Her aunt, model Gem Padilla-Thomas, was also a former Bb Pilipinas title-holder as Miss Universe Philippines 1990.
In a chat with Rappler via Facebook, Gem shared what she believed made Maxine stand out in the competition.
“In my opinion, she stood out because while we could see her physical beauty and grace, we all saw her inner beauty shine through as well. It was evident on stage that she was there not just to compete for a title but to enjoy the moment as well. She came across as very much herself, very natural. When Kylie’s name was called I knew already that Max got the most sought-after title,” she said.
She also has this simple reminder for Maxine. “Don’t forget to have fun.”
5. She loves the outdoors and the beach. Based on her Instagram photos, Maxine loves trying all types of outdoor activities. She also loves to spend her time at the beach when she’s with family and friends.
6. She’s in a relationship. Maxine is in a steady relationship with actor and model Marx Topacio, who is also part of PMAP. They have been together for 5 years.
7. She’s a doting tita. As posted on her Instagram, Maxine loves to be with kids – whether her nephew, niece, godson, or goddaughter.
8. She is very close to her sister. Meet Ferica, who according to her Instagram account, is a host and the First Thomasian Nursing Youth Ambassadress in 2014.
9. On those big shoes to fill. With her predecessor Pia Wurtzbach as the reigning Miss Universe, Maxine knows everyone’s eyes will definitely be on her as she tries to make a rare back-to-back win for the country
“I think my greatest fear is the expectations of everyone here in the Philippines because we have the Miss Universe [crown]. As Nichole [Manalo] said we have to give more effort and practice more…” Maxine said during a Facebook chat by Creamsilk Monday, April 18.
Maxine hopes that like Pia, she will have the support of the whole country.
“Sana full heart po kayo to support me. Hindi n’yo po alam ang feeling ng first timer, talking to everyone, thousands of people. Yung time na iyon super nervous ako and I admit that,” she said during an interview on TV Patrol, Monday.
(I hope you’ll support me with a full heart. You don’t know what the feeling of a first timer is, talking to everyone, thousands of people. At that time I was super nervous and I admit that.)
What do you think of Maxine Medina? Let us know in the comments below. – Rappler.com
More Binibining Pilipinas 2016 on Rappler:
Coronation night:
- Maxine Medina crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2016
- FULL LIST: Winners, Bb Pilipinas 2016 coronation night
- Photo recap: Highlights, Bb Pilipinas 2016 coronation night
- WATCH: Pia Wurtzbach’s emotional speech at Bb Pilipinas 2016 coronation
- WATCH: Pia Wurtzbach’s farewell walk at Binibining Pilipinas 2016
- WATCH: Miss Universe PH 2016 Maxine Medina’s Bb Pilipinas Q&A
- WATCH: The moment Maxine Medina became Miss Universe Philippines 2016
- WATCH: Bb Pilipinas 2016 evening gown competition at coronation night
- WATCH: Bb Pilipinas 2016 swimsuit competition at coronation night
- IN PHOTOS: Stars at Binibining Pilipinas 2016
Predictions and live blog:
- Bb Pilipinas 2016 predictions: Who will follow Pia Wurtzbach?
- LIVE UPDATES: Bb Pilipinas 2016 coronation night
- Kylie Verzosa tops Rappler poll on Binibining Pilipinas 2016
Leading up to coronation night:
- IN PHOTOS: 40 Bb Pilipinas 2016 candidates walk the runway at press presentation
- IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas 2016 official swimsuit photos
- IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas talent show 2016
- IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas 2016 national costume competition
- IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas 2016 candidates in casual wear fashion show
- IN PHOTOS: Bb Pilipinas 2016 Parade of Beauties
Get to know the ladies:
- IN PHOTOS: Meet the candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2016
- FULL LIST: Binibining Pilipinas 2016 candidates
Pia Wurtzbach:
- Pia Wurtzbach’s advice for Bb Pilipinas 2016 candidates
- WATCH: Pia Wurtzbach’s sassy assessment of Bb Pilipinas 2016 hopefuls
- WATCH: ‘Star-struck’ Pia Wurtzbach meets Manny Pacquiao
- Pia Wurtzbach confirms she’s dating Dr. Mike, shares more details
- WATCH: Pia Wurtzbach shares story behind famous ‘Ako bahala, babawi tayo sa Miss U’ tweet
Read more:
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