1969 Miss Universe winner Gloria Diaz is confident fellow Filipina beauty queen Ariella Arida has a great shot at winning the crown in this year's Miss Universe pageant in Moscow, Russia.

Diaz, who claimed the first Miss Universe title for the Philippine over four decades ago, believed Arida possesses all the qualities to become a Miss Universe title holder.

"I think she is beautiful. She's got everything, she's a true Filipina. She's very exotic in a positive way, she's tall. She's beautiful. But the problem is we are spoiled. First runner-up for us is not enough. No, they are all winners," she told ABS-CBN News in an interview.

Making the Country Proud

The 66-year old Diaz insisted that making it even in the top-5 of the Miss Universe contest is a great achievement for the country. Moreover, failing to make it in the semis or final round doesn't mean she's loser, adding there are lots of opportunities waiting for her after the pageant.

"We are so near. Making it in the top 5 makes you already a winner. [If she doesn't make it] It's still okay because she's beautiful. She can get into movies, do hosting. It's just the beginning," she added.

Diaz, who served as judge when Arida bagged the Binibining Pilipinas Miss Universe crown earlier this year, really believed the Laguna beauty is the unanimous pick to represent the country, though she's a little bit worried about her as she overcomes the pressure of matching the accomplishments of her predecessors.

"There were nine or ten other judges. I like her face, I like everything about her. The others liked her, too. I think it was a unanimous decision. But I feel sad if she will be stressed about [winning] because there was another winner just before her," she said.

Four in a Row?

The Philippines has been a powerhouse in Miss Universe for the last three years, earning at least a spot in the top-5.

Venus Raj bagged fourth runner-up in 2010, Shamcey Supsup took third runner-up in 2011, while Janine Tugonon barely won the title after finishing first-runner up in 2012.

Arida is being considered as one of the early favorite to win the title. Early betting trends and fearless forecast from pageant analysts put Miss Philippines in an ideal position to take the crown on November 9 at Crocus City Hall in Moscow.