Manny Pacquiao and Miss Universe Philippines Janine Mari Tugonon - What do they have in common? [PHOTOS]

Manny Pacquiao and Miss Universe Philippines Janine Mari Tugonon have quite a lot in common. But there is one thing that Filipinos hope they won't share come Dec. 19 at the Miss Universe 2012 finals night - defeat to Mexico.

Pacquiao and Tugonon are both Philippine celebrities in their own right. The former has become a Filipino boxing icon, while the latter is about to take the country's pride in an international beauty competition. Boxing and beauty have brought them both to Las Vegas, Nevada. For these title holders in sports and exquisite presence, Mexico is a shared competition.

Pacquiao got knocked out by Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez last Sunday at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. How will Tugonon fare against Miss Universe Mexico Karina Gonzalez on Wednesday, Dec. 19?

Miss Universe Title Holders: It's a tie for Mexico and the Philippines - for now

Mexico has two Miss Universe winners in history: Lupita Jones (1991) and Ximena Navarrete (2010). The Philippines also has the same number of title holders: Gloria Diaz (1969) and Margarita Moran (1973). Could Janine Mari or Karina break the tie this year?

"I believe this is where I'm really meant to be," Janine told local broadsheet, Philippine Star. "Losing is not an option. I have to set my mind on winning."

Pacquiao had the chance to talk to Janine when they had a photo-op in Las Vegas last week. Pacquiao had "wished Janine luck and told her to just do her best and pray to God," reported the Star.

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