#MissUniverse2012: Miss Philippines is first runner-up

The final five are called.  The judges name the fourth, third and second runners-up.  Only two are left onstage – Miss Philippines and Miss USA.  For a heartrenching minute, Filipinos thought Janine Tugonon would bring home the prize after what many thought was a quick, substantive answer to her question:  “As an international ambassador, do you believe that speaking English is a pre-requisite to be Miss Universe?”  Her response: “For me, Miss Universe is not about being able to speak a specific language, it’s about being able to influence and inspire other people.  No matter what language you speak, as long as you have the heart and a strong mind, you can become Miss Universe.”  Miss Philippines is first runner-up to Miss Universe 2012. 

Read more about the results, the live blog and the reactions after – all on Rappler.