North Cotabato praying for MJ's Miss Universe win

KIDAPAWAN City, Philippines - North Cotabato-born Binibining Pilipinas-Universe 2014 Mary Jean Lastimosa is now preparing for the 63rd Miss Universe pageant on January 25 in Miami, Florida.

North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, a staunch benefactor of Lastimosa, on Wednesday said provincial officials, relatives and friends of the beauty queen are praying hard for her to take home the elusive Miss Universe crown.

“We are optimistic about it. She is intelligent, smart and beautiful and, most importantly, she’s a very fine woman,” Mendoza said.

Lastimosa, who is known in the province as “MJ,” left for America last January 3.

Lastimosa was born and raised in North Cotabato’s Tulunan town, some 20 kilometers southwest of the provincial capital, Kidapawan City.

Mendoza said the 27-year-old Lastimosa is now preparing for the January 25 pageant.

At least 86 other contestants from different countries will aspire for the Miss Universe crown.

In a farewell message emailed to reporters, Lastimosa said she will do her best to win the crown.

“There is always an ideal timing for everything under heaven. If we fail, we can try and try to pursue our dreams,” she said.

Lastimosa was crowned Binibining Pilipinas-Universe on Mar. 30, 2014, after two failed attempts to win the title in 2011 and in 2012.

Lastimosa said she is elated with the show of support from various sectors in North Cotabato.

“I wish to thank in advance those who are praying for me, praying hard for me to bring home the crown. I can’t thank them all enough,” she said.

Lastimosa said she is also grateful to the local leaders in Tulunan and to Mendoza for providing continuing assistance needed in her bid for the Miss Universe title.

The office of Mendoza sponsored the participation of Lastimosa in the 2014 Binibining Pilipinas pageant.