Palace wishes country’s Miss Universe bet goodluck

Miss Universe – Philippines 2015 MJ Lastimosa (Facebook photo)

MANILA — Malacanang wished Mary Jean Lastimosa, the country’s contestant for the Miss Universe beauty pageant, the best of luck when she vies for the beauty title Sunday in Florida.

“Goodluck. I understand that a lot of people are following… I see it on social media that a lot of people… You know, there’s a lot of excitement building up to the competition and truly we wish her luck,” Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview Saturday.

Lastimosa, a 26-year-old beauty queen from North Cotabato, will try to clinch the Miss Universe crown for the Philippines on Sunday (Florida time).

Miss Universe crown has been elusive for the Philippines in the past few years, although some of the country’s contestants made it to the top five since 2010.

The expectations are high for Lastimosa, with the country itching for another crown after the Filipino beauty queens failed last year to match the Philippines’ success in 2013 in the popular international beauty pageant.

On Wednesday night (U.S. time), Lastimosa participated in the pageant’s evening gown and swimsuit competitions along with other 87 contestants.

Based on their performances in the initial round, the judges will pick the Top 15 hopefuls who will advance to the Miss Universe finale to be held on Sunday in Florida.