How Maxine's parents feel as Miss Universe approaches

A photo posted by Maria Mika Maxine Medina (@maxine_medina) on Dec 10, 2016 at 3:32pm PST

MANILA – The parents of Maxine Medina do not have the slightest doubt that their daughter will do well in representing the Philippines in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant.

The beauty competition will be held in the Philippines for the third time on January 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

While they also have jitters as the big event approaches, Mr. Medina said they never forget to pray for their daughter as she gears up for the international pageant.

“We always pray and go to Baclaran. We light a candle every weekend and if we have time. We always pray lang. We think positive,” he told ABS-CBN News’ Jeff Fernando in an interview.

Mr. Medina said Maxine knows how to handle both the positive and negative comments well that they are not worried that the bashing might dishearten their daughter.

“Si Maxine, she is very good. She can handle all the pressure. Right now, it’s not obvious na nahihirapan siya. She is very relaxed,” he said.

A photo posted by Maria Mika Maxine Medina (@maxine_medina) on Dec 25, 2016 at 4:50am PST

Mrs. Medina added they cannot recall an instance where Maxine ever got discouraged in her journey to the Miss Universe crown.

“When you ask her, she will tell you, ‘I am excited already and I know Pia will crown me,’” she said.

But did they ever envision their daughter as a beauty queen when she was younger?

“I didn’t have the slightest idea na magiging Miss Universe [candidate siya] but we play paper dolls. Binibihisan niya iyan and gustong gusto niya mag gowns. Pero I never imagined na [ire-represent niya ang Pilipinas],” Mrs. Medina said.

Agreeing with his wife, Mr. Medina said his daughter is actually very active and athletic.

With less than four weeks before the pageant, Maxine’s parents can only wish the best for their daughter.

“Anak, I know you can do it. I wish you luck and I love you very much. Don’t forget to pray,” Mrs. Medina said.

“Always pray and think positive. Whatever outcome, first runner-up, second runner-up, that’s okay with us. She achieved Miss Universe-Philippines already, that’s enough for us,” Mr. Medina said.

Maxine’s parents said their entire family will throw their full support for their daughter as she attempts to succeed Pia Wurtzbach as Miss Universe.