Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina is facing intense scrutiny these days for her struggles speaking English. Understandable especially since the competition, where she will look to win the country's first back-to-back titles, is just around the corner. But the hate has to stop, said actor Derek Ramsay.

On his Instagram account on Wednesday, Ramsay, who is set to host the preliminary round of the 65th Miss Universe pageant with reigning title-holder Pia Wurtzbach, shared a photo of Medina.

"Stop the bashing! We should be proud of this beautiful and accomplished Filipina. Good luck," he wrote.

This is clearly in response to Medina's critics predicting her defeat this early, and those claiming that she has very little chance to succeed Wurtzbach.

Medina's family has also come to her defense.

Her sister Ferica, in an interview with ABS-CBN News' Marie Lozano, noted Medina's vast improvement, at least compared to her shaky interviews early on.

"Ang lagi ko lang sinasabi sa ate ko na she should focus on the supporters, sa lahat lang ng positive things. And kung may marinig man siyang negative, she should just take it in a positive way. ...Mas galingan pa niya, mas i-prove niya na mas deserving siya to win the crown. Kasi doon ka mas malalakas," Ferica explained.

The preliminary round, which would help determine the top 12 candidates, will begin Thursday evening. It includes the preliminary judging for swimsuit, evening gown, and question and answer rounds.

It is available for viewing live on the official Facebook page of Miss Universe.