Janine Tugonon Bags 1st Runner-up In Miss Universe 2012

Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon finished first runner-up in this year's Miss Universe beauty pageant, which saw 89 delegates from all over the world and held Wednesday night in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

Janine Tugonon during the Parade of National Costumes

The Pinay beauty captivated the judges during the earlier rounds with her poise and glamour, easily making it to the Top 16, then to the Top 10 and finally to the Top 5.

In the make-or-break question and answer round, Tugonon made her supporters go wild with her impressive answer.

Judge Nigel Barker of "America's Next Top Model" asked, "As an international ambassador, do you believe speaking English is a prerequisite to be Miss Universe? Why or why not?"

Tugonon's response was, "For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language. It is being to influence and inspire other people. So whatever language you have, as long as your heart wants to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people then you can be Miss Universe."

The 23-year-old Bataan native did not bag the coveted crown but made a lot of Pinoys proud.

The Miss Universe 2012 title was won by Miss USA Olivia Culpo. Rounding the Top 5 were Irene Sofia Esser Quintero of Venezuela, Renae Ayris of Australia and Gabriela Markus of Brazil.