MANILA, Philippines - The 63rd Miss Universe turned out to be an unpredictable event.
IN PHOTOS: Miss Colombia crowned as new Miss Universe
Paulina Vega of Colombia, an early favorite, emerged victorious during the coronation night, held in Miami, Florida on Monday.
But the overall result of the pageant surprised avid fans and casual viewers with the exclusion of Miss Venezuela and Miss Philippines in the finals.
The Miami suburb of Doral, which was host to the women during their stay, is also known as "Doralzuela" for its many Venezuelan residents. Three of the last six Miss Universe titles have gone to Venezuela, where beauty pageants are big business.
Meanwhile, Filipino fans of the pageant were upset with Mary Jean’s non-placement in the top five, with the hashtags #PatayTV, #MJAllTheWay and #MJForMsUniverse trending locally on Twitter.
The placement of Miss Netherlands, Miss Ukraine and Miss Jamaica in the top five was also unexpected, with many people betting on Miss Venezuela, MIss Spain and Miss Great Britain to make it to the finals.
Here are photos of the highlights during the 63rd Miss Universe pageant - with the Associated Press: