MANILA, Philippines - Despite not being able to move on to the top five of Miss International 2015, Janicel Lubina was able to touch the hearts of many.
The 20-year-old beauty from Palawan left everyone bawling after she delivered her speech at the recently concluded Miss International pageant held in Japan on November 5.
READ: Venezuela's Edymar Martínez crowned Miss International 2015
The former kasambahay turned beauty queen stood in front proudly as she shared her experience growing up with impoverishment.
"Representing my country here in Miss International, is a great honor for me. As a simple woman who came from a poor family, I dreamed to have a better life for my family and it motivates me to never give up. At a young age, I have to work at the rice fields to help my parents while taking care of my brothers since my parents are working," said Lubina.
Despite the struggles that she had to go through, the Filipina stunner did not give up believing in her dreams.
"Life has been full of hardships and challenges, but I never stopped dreaming and working hard to achieve my goals in life. I want to be an inspiration to young people; that nothing is impossible if you follow your dreams and have a strong faith in God," she continued.
The story of a timid househelper transforming into a ravishing queen is just one side of the story that Lubina wants to tell the world. More than the title of a beauty queen, Lubina wants everyone to know that nothing is impossible is you continue to chase after your dreams.
In her own words: "Poverty is not a hindrance to achieve success in life."
The moment she spoke my tears already fell down remembering all that happened to her. #MissInternational2015 pic.twitter.com/2dDU0ZPs0p
— Kyemedora Zobeyala (@RedKaimer) November 5, 2015 Sincere speech from Janicel Lubina <3 #MissInternational2015
— Mr.Illonggov3.0 (@Lester_kheix24) November 5, 2015 She nailed it!!! I as blown by her answer... I love you Janicel Lubina!!! You made us every Filipino proud. #MissInternational2015
— Rey Dan (@hunkytraveler) November 5, 2015 What an emotional speech Miss Philippines. Laban Miss Janicel. Poverty is not a hindrance, indeed. #MissInternational2015
— Arjohn Alinsunurin (@arjwyn) November 5, 2015 Naiiyak alo sa speech ni Janicel. :( #MissInternational2015
— alvin villanueva (@vhenotified) November 5, 2015 A Very heartwarming speech from Pinay Cinderella Janicel Lubina..i was teary eyed and sooo damn proud of you #MissInternational2015
— Myls Galvan (@mylsmerized23) November 5, 2015 And that was a heartfelt and "true to life" answer from Ms. Philippines! #MissInternational2015
— Jaypee Gozun (@Jaypee_Gozun) November 5, 2015 #MissPhilippines Janicel Lubina delivered a moving & inspiring speech in #MissInternational2015. Our girl deserves the crown.
— Perci Cendana (@PerciCen) November 5, 2015 A very heartfelt answer from Ms. Janicel Lubina, Ms. Philippines! clap clap! =D #MissInternational2015
— John Rome Aranas (@romeurboat) November 5, 2015 Miss Philippines' hips and turns just slayed the swimsuit competition. Stunning and regal. #MissInternational2015
— Reymund Virtusio (@mondvirtusio) November 5, 2015
The Filipina beauty will not go home empty-handed: Lubina was given the Miss Best Dresser special award.