Kylie Verzosa wins Miss International crown

The Philippines' candidate Kylie Verzosa is the new Miss International!

The 24-year-old model and teacher from Baguio City won the title during the coronation event held at the Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo on Thursday.

Rounding out her court are Miss Australia as first runner-up, Miss Indonesia as second runner-up, Miss Nicaragua as third runner-up, and Miss USA as fourth runner-up.

In the other awards, Miss Nicaragua won Miss National Costume, Miss Moldova won Miss Perfect Body, and Miss Indonesia won Miss Best Dresser.

Earlier, in her speech as one of the top 15, Verzosa said, "It is with developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate differences, and appreciate diversity."

In her acceptance speech, Verzosa thanked Japan, her family and supporters, and the fans. "I did not go through this journey alone," she said. "I deeply appreciate this. Thank you so much, Japan!"

Verzosa is the sixth Filipina to win the Miss International title, after Gemma Cruz in 1964, Aurora Pijuan in 1970, Melanie Marquez in 1979, Precious Lara Quigaman in 2005, and Bea Santiago in 2013. Only Venezuela has more Miss International titles with seven. — BM, GMA News