Fresh from their victories in the Miss Universe and Mister International contests, Venezuela proves further that the country is still the world's pageant powerhouse. Twenty-two year-old Alyz Henrich of Punto Fijo wins Miss Earth 2013, the second for the South American country, in a simple coronation night held at the Versailles Palace in Alabang, Muntinlupa City early tonight.

It was between Miss Venezuela, Miss Thailand and Miss Philippines at the final stretch when other favorites Miss Brazil and Miss Ukraine failed to make it to the Top 16. Venezuela’s bet articulated that the eco-tourism does contribute to the protection of the environment as it helps people to be aware n the importance of taking care of the environment. During the pre-pageant events, Alyz is a heavy favorite having been chosen as the recipient of special awards including Best in Evening Gown. She also won Miss Hanna, Miss Ever Bilena, Best in Hanna Swimsuit, Miss Psalmstre Advanced Placenta and Miss Pontefino.

A surprise choice for Miss Earth Air, meanwhile, is Austria’s Katia Wagner. The 25-year old beauty from Vienna answered solar energy as human’s greatest invention for it advocates sustainable energy. One of the most applauded contestants on the other hand, Thailand’s Punika Kulsoontornrut won Miss Earth Water after identifying human behavior as the biggest threat to the environment aside from global warming.

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