Janine Tugonon willing to help in gov't activities [1]

ABS-CBNnews.com | 12/27/2012 6:07 PM

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MANILA, Philippines – Beauty queen Janine Tugonon said she would like to use her current status as Miss Universe 2012 first runner-up to help the country by joining government-initiated activities.

Miss Universe 2012 first runner up Janine Tugonon

After her courtesy call on Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim on Thursday, Tugonon told ABS-CBN News that she wants to be instrumental in bringing about change in the Philippines.

“I really want to be part sa government, makatulong sa bansa natin. I believe one day magiging first world country ang Philippines. If you need my help, sige po I'll do it willingly,” she said.

The 23-year-old Pharmacy graduate also expressed sadness over what happened to the victims of typhoon “Pablo”, telling them to stay strong because God will never leave them.

“A lot of Filipinos, we need to help them. Hindi mawawala 'yun, ang suporta ng Pinoy. Basta diyan lang kayo at maging matatag lang po tayo at magdasal po tayo. Lahat babalik sa dati, babalik sa ayos. I know na magiging maganda din ang buhay ng bawat isa sa atin,” she said.

Typhoon “Pablo,” which devastated the Philippines earlier this month, is said to be the second deadliest typhoon since the country began keeping records, according to NDRRMC chief Benito Ramos.

As of December 22, the official death toll from "Pablo" already climbed to 1,067, affecting at least 6.24 million people and destroying some 178,341 homes.