MANILA – Miss Universe Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina is keeping her eyes on the prize.

Not letting criticism get to her, Medina has been focusing on improving her communication skills for the next Miss Universe pageant in 2017.

On top of her regular workshops and training sessions, she has been reading at least three articles a day – and even watching Ted Talks in between – to brush up on current issues.

She has also been keeping a journal. “Nandoon lahat ng opinions ko, lahat ng nasa isip ko about issues,” she told ABS-CBN News and other reporters on Wednesday.

“My focus right now is communication. This is the most important thing.”

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Medina, 26, has big shoes to fill. Her predecessor, Pia Wurtzbach, is the Philippines’ third Miss Universe in over four decades. Add to that the fact that the next edition of the international pageant will be held here in the country.

But instead of feeling the pressure, Medina is excited to compete. “I think it’s an advantage for us because as you can see, everyone will be cheering for the Philippines. I’m so excited,” she said.”

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‘Pia is different, Maxine is different’

Ever since she was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2016, Medina has been compared to Wurtzbach – from looks to personality.

But the country’s next representative to Miss Universe reiterated that there is no need to pit them against each other.

“[Dapat walang comparison] Because Pia is my friend. We’ve been talking a lot sa Whatsapp and gina-guide naman niya ako. So walang problema doon,” she said.

“Well, Pia is different. Maxine is different. So you should love me for who I am,” she said, smiling.

When asked about the “best” advice that Wurtzbach has given her, Medina replied: “Sabi niya sa akin, be strong and be yourself… So I will do my best and I will give my 100%.”