During the final question and answer portion of the competition Tugonon was asked a question via Twitter and read by judge Nigel Barker : " As an international ambassador , do you believe that speaking English should be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe ? Why or why not ? " , Tugonon replied : For me , being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language – it is being able to influence and inspire other people . So whatever language you have , as long your heart is to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people , then , you can be Miss Universe . Tugonon is the second Filipino to place 1st Runner-up , after Miriam Quiambao at Miss Universe 1999
Miss Universe 1999
Miss Universe 1999
Janine Tugonon