“Because I believe love does not see gender and if you love that someone, go for it.”

A contestant in a beauty pageant in the Philipines has been praised after she chose to speak about her girlfriend in a question round.

Facebook: BinibiningCebu

Maria Izobel Taguiam, 17, represented Tabogon at the first Binibining Cebu pageant on October 28. As part of the competition, the final 12 participants were each asked a question.

View Video ›

facebook.com

Taguiam, before her "official" question, was asked by the hosts if she had a boyfriend. She replied, "Yes but not a boyfriend but a girlfriend. Because I believe love does not see gender and if you love someone, go for it.”

Facebook: BinibiningCebu

Taguiam told Cebu Daily News she wanted to be honest in her interview.

Facebook: ribin.starr