MANILA, Philippines - Janine Tugonon’s performance during the 2012 Miss Universe pageant, much like her beauty, captivated the imagination of Filipinos here and abroad. Social media went crazy as supporters cheered her on as she moved into the Top 16, Top 10, Top 5 and eventually, the final two.
A woman of substance, she is most remembered for impressing the judges and audiences worldwide with her simple yet heartfelt answer in the Miss Universe Top Five Q&A portion: “Being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language, it's about being able to influence and inspire other people. As long as your heart is deserving and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”
While USA went on to win the title, there is no doubt that Janine is the true winner in the hearts and minds of her countrymen.
So with her title firmly secured, it is evident that Janine’s strong will, sheer determination to succeed, and heart and passion for God make her the best ambassador for women, beauty, and class. And leading global beauty company Avon is right to notice her and make her its newest endorser for its fragrance, color, fashion jewelry, and watch lines.
“Avon is a brand I’ve known and patronized for years,” Janine says. “But more than the beauty products it offers Filipina women, I’m also impressed with the company’s efforts to provide earning opportunities for its Representatives, and take part in addressing causes such as the fight against domestic violence and breast cancer.”
The 5’8” 23-year-old morena stunner from Bataan, who is also a licensed pharmacist and cum laude graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, admits that it wasn’t in her plans to become a beauty queen. But after learning that she was being considered for Bb. Pilipinas, she put her heart, mind, and soul to make her country proud.
Avon Senior Vice President and President for Asia Pacific and Philippines, Bob Briddon, says of Janine: “More than representing the Philippines in the Miss Universe Pageant, which she did very well, Janine also represents what Avon stands for: beauty inside and out.” He adds, “She also inspires and influences others to make a difference so naturally, we are more than happy and proud to welcome her to the Avon family.”
Perhaps what adds to Janine’s appeal is her strong yet grounded characteristic. An active user of social media, Janine interacts with her followers on Twitter where, like most of us, she enjoys posting pictures of family, friends, and food.
Janine adds that fans and supporters also tell her via social networking sites how much her achievement has inspired them. While unsure at first how to respond to such praises, Janine has now come to see her position as a way to proactively encourage and motivate others to pursue their dreams.
“Social media is very powerful because the extent of your influence reaches different parts of the world,” Janine says.
When asked what advice she would give young ladies who wish to follow in her footsteps, she still answers with the same sentiment and the same strong conviction: “It’s going to be a tough task. But with hard work, determination, and a strong faith and relationship with God, you can do it.”
Barely two months into carrying out her new responsibilities as a reigning beauty queen, Janine is just beginning to savor the moment.
“Right now, I’m enjoying it so much. I really, really love what I’m doing,” she enthuses, smiling.
“I’m very much honored to be part of the Avon family,” Janine states. “I hope to put my influence to good use by making the brand—not just its products, but its message for women and the causes it stands for—more accessible and relatable to Filipina women through my own personal connection to Avon.”
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Dexter Rodrigo Matilla | The Philippine Star | February 24, 2013 | Article Link
