Maxine Medina's response in Q&A portion draws mixed reactions

MANILA, Philippines — Maria Mika Maxine Medina was hailed as the new Miss Universe-Philippines past midnight on Monday, following Pia Wurtzbach's reign.

Clad in a sparkling magenta gown, the 25-year-old lass from Quezon City bested forty candidates on her way to the crown. 

Maxine, being chosen among the top 15 candidates, went through the question and answer (Q&A) portion where judges would choose the candidate to whom they would throw a question. Maxine's question was read to her by ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer Cory Vidanes.

Below is the transcript:

QUESTION:

 "Even if her parents want to send her to school, a 15-year-old girl wants to stop her studies, what would be your advise to her?"

MAXINE'S ANSWER:

"I would tell the girl to study hard, no matter what their parents would tell them. Because having an education is something that… something that… cannot have that anybody else [sic]...Education can make you an even better person. Thank you."

Maxine's response made quite a stir on social media, with some saying her answer was not satisfactory, while others arguing that her answer would really not keep her from reaching the crown.

Somebody please enlighten me how did Maxine Medina's answer made her become Miss Philippines Universe 2016 

— KRIZZA SESE (@krizzapizza_) April 18, 2016

Maxine Medina's answer in the Q&A portion though  #BbPilipinas2016

— Nyoriel (@SenyoraNoriel) April 17, 2016

Bb. Pilipinas Unverse Maxine Medina's answer was a huge let down for most pinoys. We've set such a high bar for Q&A. #BbPilipinas2016

— Kenneth James Bag-ao (@IamKenjames) April 17, 2016

Maxine Medina: very pretty but gave a weak and less coherent answer. I dont get why she won. Haha. Oh well goonight. #BbPilipinas2016

—  King  (@kinginatics) April 17, 2016

Ok I'm gonna give Maxine Medina a break. I remember Pia's answer in last year's Binibini wasn't a fan favorite as well but she still (1/3)

— Potato Couch (@OhNo710) April 17, 2016

#Maxine Medina. Not the best answer, but she is d prettiest for me. And she is taller than Kylie. I'm good with d results.#BbPilipinas2016

— Leah Merida-Quiambao (@leahmq) April 17, 2016

Maxine Medina is pretty but the answer was so out there. Good luck hope she gets good coaching. IMO Kylie was the best #BbPilipinas2016

— @goluxxe (@goluxxe) April 17, 2016

The candidates of Binibining Pilipinas are judged based on criteria such as beauty of the face, beauty of figure, intelligence, poise and personality.

Also crowned at this year's Binibining Pilipinas pageant were: Kylie Versoza (Binibining Pilipinas-International), Jennifer Hammond (Binibining Pilipinas-Intercontinental), Joanna Eden (Binibining Pilipinas-Supranational), Nicole Cordoves (Binibining Pilipinas-Grand International) and Nichole Manalo (Binibining Pilipinas-Globe). — Alixandra Caole Vila