Maxine inspired by aunt: 'She told me to be myself'

MANILA, Philippines — The 65th Miss Universe in the Philippines continues to introduce change.

During the announcement of the Top 13 candidates Monday, host Steve Harvey had a little question and answer portion with candidates who advanced to the next round.

Miss USA Deshauna Barber was asked about her military career while Miss Peru Valeria Piazza recalled how she strived after surviving a car crash.

Miss Colombia was asked how Colombians view Harvey, a reference from last year's gaffe when he mistakenly announced Colombia's Ariadna Gutierrez as the winner.

"Want me to tell the truth?" Andrea Tovar said. "A lot of people (from Colombia) hate you. But me, no, I love you" she said.

The Philippines’ Maxine Medina, meanwhile, was asked about her aunt, Gem Padilla-Thomas, who also represented the Philippines in the Miss Universe 1990.

"She told me to be myself and to be more confident since it's (the pageant) going (to be held) here in the Philippines," said Medina.

Other candidates who made it to the Top 13 were Kenya, Indonesia, Mexico, Panama, Canada, Brazil, France and Haiti.

Thailand's Chalita Suansane, for her part, received the final spot after garnering the most social media votes.