Pia Wurtzbach crowns Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina

Amidst strewned confetti and dazzling lights, twenty-five year old Maria Mika Maxine Medina beamed with joy as she was crowned the new Miss Universe Philippines.

The 2016 Binibining Pilipinas coronation was held at Smart-Araneta Coliseum, early Monday.

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Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach (also from Philippines) crowned Maria, who will now go on to compete in this year’s Miss Universe pageant.

An interior designer from Quezon City the beauty queen bested 39 candidates to win the most coveted title.

The other contestants who made it to the top are:

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Bb. Pilipinas - Globe: Nichole Marie Manalo
Bb. Pilipinas Grand International: Nicole Cordoves
Bb. Pilipinas - Supranational: Joanna Deapera Eden
Bb. Pilipinas - Intercontinental: Jennifer Hammond
Bb. Pilipinas - International: Kylie Verzosa
2nd Runner-up: Jehza Mae Huelar
1st Runner-up: Angelica Alita

The winners were announced after Pia took the stage for one last time as Miss Universe Philippines.

Giving an emotional speech, Wurtzbach thanked God and those who supported her in her journey to become Miss Universe after two failed attempts at the local pageant.

"We should have a strong heart and prepared mind to turn your dreams into reality," Wurtzbach said.

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Addressing her successor, who was yet to be named, the international beauty queen said the whole country has her back.

"Just remember to give your best... In your moment of doubt, remember you have the whole country cheering you on," she said.

Binibining Pilipinas, now in its 53rd edition, is the longest-running and most prestigious beauty pageant in the Philippines.

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