Ariella Arida Defended By Janine Tugonon From Critics

Ariella Arida is doing pretty well in the Miss Universe 2013 competition but some Noypis fear that her poor command in English language might hinder her from winning the coveted title.

Ariella Arida and Janine Tugonon

Miss Universe 2012 first runner-up Janine Tugonon said it is not an issue and reiterated her answer to the question she was asked during last year's Finals that speaking English is not a pre-requisite to winning Miss Universe.

"Honestly, I’m not that good in English but still I managed to clinch the first runner-up title," explained Tugonon. "What they care about is what’s in your heart, your personality, and your stand on certain issues. Knowing Ara, I know she has a good heart and so I’m confident with her interviews."

Tugonon, who just finished her two-month acting class in the Los Angeles branch of the prestigious New York Film Academy, believes Ara is a very strong contender and may be the one to finally bring back the Miss Universe crown to the country after 40 years. Margarita Moran last won the title in 1973.

"I believe Ara really has the face and the body. I’ve been seeing her pictures and I love them. She trained hard so i know she’ll do good. I can’t say exactly how she will fare in the competition but with Ara’s beauty, which for me is very Filipina, I think she stands a good chance because they love Filipina beauty," said Tugonon.

The preliminary round of judging for Miss Universe has already begun. After the closed door preliminary interview, Ariella was recently adjudged wearing her national costume, alongside 85 other candidates, in the National Costume competition held in Vegas Mall.

This year’s Miss Universe will be crowned this Sunday (Nov 10) in Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia. The show will be hosted by Thomas Roberts of “MSNBC Live” and Mel B of “America’s Got Talent.”

The ceremony will be aired live on Velvet Channel at 2 AM with a delayed telecast on ABS-CBN at 9 AM and a primetime replay at 10 PM.