MYANMAR — Kapamilya actor Xian Lim hosted the global pageant Miss Grand International 2018 that drew praises from netizens.
Last year, Xian hosted the same pageant with Miss Grand International 2016 first runner-up Nicole Cordoves of the Philippines.
“Congratulations @XianLimm ur 2nd time hosting such a prestigious int'l pageant we are so proud of u,” a netizen wrote.
“Xian Lim hosted alone and nailed it, he really is a pro in hosting, be it local or international,” another netizen, wrote while the other said: “You made the Philippines proud, you're amazing.... International Beauty Pageant Host.”
When the Philippines’ representative for the pageant, Eva Patalinjug, failed to make it to the top 20, Filipino netizens began to comment on the pageant’s live Facebook stream.
“Go get the crown for the Philippines, Xian!” said one netizen.
“Don’t worry, guys, we still have Xian!” added another.
Xian shared a video on his social media account that he met Eva after the pageant and gave her hug for a job well done.
"Hello, kanina pa sila naghahanap sa'yo. Hello ka naman," Xian said.
"Mahal ko kayo," Eva said in the video.
“Thank you pageant fans from all around the world,” Xian said in another post.
For her part, Eva said: “Crowns and titles are not a measurement of one’s capability to do great things. I have served my purpose and that purpose is to show courage, determination, beauty and substance as a Filipina. To be an inspiration to all people from all walks of life. To never give up in life everytime you fall.
“I cried not because I felt bad but because I can really feel the love and support from the people all over the world, specially my loving country, PHILIPPINES! That being said, I already won even before I lost. Hanggag sa huli, Mahal ko kayo!”