MANILA, Philippines - "Walang susuko! Ang Pilipino, palaban."
Thus said Philippine bet Pia Wurtzbach on her Instagram account after the final rehearsal for the 64th Miss Universe.
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The pageant night will be held at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 20 (Monday morning, Philippine time).
"We just finished our last rehearsal day before the big night. I can't believe it. I started training November 2012 and now it's December 2015. It took so long for me to earn this sash with 3 attempts in Miss Philippines. It was quite a journey and tomorrow it all ends on this one big night," the 26-year-old Pinay beauty queen said.
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe Philippines 2015, poses during rehearsals at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on December 18th, 2015. © Miss Universe L.P., LLLP/Richard D. Salyer
"Deciding to join Binibining Pilipinas was the best decision I've ever made," she said. "And wow, what an honor it is to represent our country in the most prestigious pageant ever. This may very well be the highlight of my life."
Pia added: "Absolutely no regrets. Finally guys, and of course most importantly, I hope I inspired you. Never give up on your dreams and believe that dreams do come true!"
"Walang susuko! Ang Pilipino, palaban."
Earlier, she took to social media to ask for the support of Filipino fans during the fan voting of the Miss Universe pageant.
For the first time in the contest's history, viewers can score the contestants real-time. This will determine whether a candidate will make it through the pageant's succeeding round.
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe Philippines 2015, poses during rehearsals at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on December 18th, 2015. © Miss Universe L.P., LLLP/Richard D. Salyer
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Specifically, Pia asked for the help of AlDub Nation, or fans of "Eat Bulaga" love team Alden Richards and Maine "Yaya Dub" Mendoza. Pia, a Star Magic artist, is the best friend of former ABS-CBN talent and current "Eat Bulaga" co-host Pauleen Luna.
Earlier this week, Pia along with the 79 other candidates participated in the preliminary competition of the 64th Miss Universe.
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe Philippines 2015, poses during rehearsals at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on December 18th, 2015. © Miss Universe L.P., LLLP/Richard D. Salyer
She wore a red gown by Oliver Tolentino for the evening gown competition of the prelims and an Albert Andrada capiz terno for the national costume show.
Her ensemble earned the approval of Pinoy fans and netizens, who were critical of Mary Jean Lastimosa's outfit during the 63rd Miss Universe prelims.
More articles on the 64th Miss Universe pageant:
- Pia Wurtzbach gears up for Miss Universe 2015 in Las Vegas
- Pia Wurtzbach on what makes her stand out in 2015 Miss Universe
- Q&A: Pia Wurtzbach wants to prove doubters wrong at Miss Universe 2015
- IN PHOTOS: Pia Wurtzbach sizzles at 2015 Miss Universe glamour, swimwear shots
- IN PHOTOS: Thailand's 'bizarre' tuk-tuk dress for Miss Universe 2015 goes viral
- IN PHOTOS: Pia Wurtzbach shines in pre-pageant events at 2015 Miss Universe
- IN PHOTOS: Pia Wurtzbach impresses at 2015 Miss Universe prelims
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