MANILA, January 31 (Reuters) - A 24-year-old woman from Paris won the Miss Universe crown in a three-hour show in Manila on Monday that focused on diversity and overcoming life struggles, besting 85 other hopefuls from all over the world.
Iris Mittenaere, who is pursuing a degree in dental surgery, won the 65th edition of the annual competition hosted for the third time by the Philippines.
[caption id="attachment_246785" align="aligncenter" width="650"]
Contestants congratulate Miss France Iris Mittenaere after she was declared winner in the Miss Universe beauty pageant at the Mall of Asia Arena, in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines January 30, 2017. REUTERS/Erik De Castro - RTSXZI5[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_246786" align="aligncenter" width="728"]
Headphones are placed on Miss France Iris Mittenaere (L) and Miss Haiti Racquel Pellisier during the question and answer portion at the 65th Miss Universe beauty pageant at the Mall of Asia Arena, in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines January 30, 2017. REUTERS/Erik De Castro[/caption]