Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Miss Grand International First Runner-up Nicole Cordoves stands by her answer during the pageant's question and answer round.

Cordoves, 24, said she would still choose U.S. Republican candidate Donald Trump if she is again asked to pick between the two leading U.S. presidential candidates to help stop war and violence.

In a Skype interview with CNN Philippines fresh from her win Thursday, Cordoves said she answered Trump as part of her strategy.

All the Miss Grand International hopefuls heard each other's answer for the same question, unlike in other beauty pageants, Cordoves said.

"So you need a specific strategy to make you stand out," she said.

"That was my strategy so I wouldn't have answered it any other way," she added.

Cordoves said she always has the "mindset of winning."

"There are a lot of beautiful women but you need to always think, every minute, every second, how you could have an edge," she said.

Miss Indonesia Ariska Putri Pertiwi was crowned Miss Grand International 2016.

'Booed by Mexicans'

Of the five final contenders, only Cordoves and Miss USA Michelle Leon chose Trump. They both drew loud boos from some audience.

"The large group who were booing me were actually Mexicans," Cordoves said.

Trump has made outrageous comments against Mexico and the Mexicans. In a speech that announced his presidential bid, Trump called the Mexicans who illegally cross the U.S. border as criminals and rapists.

"But in a heartbeat I also said, you know what I need to get Trump over to my side because he's charismatic," Cordoves said.

She compared Trump to Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton who she said does not have the same influence despite being in government for a long period of time.

"You know if he switches to our side he won't even start war and violence anymore," Cordoves said.

Netizens weigh in

CNN Philippines asked netizens of their thoughts on Cordoves' answer, which has drawn mixed reactions on social media.

Some praised Cordoves for her wit. But others said she could have won the crown if she did not pick Trump.