via John Paul Gaspar
The journey of the Philippines in Miss Grand International has been a rollercoaster of near misses, controversies, and resilience. Since the pageant's inception in 2013, Filipino representatives often came close but had yet to claim the crown, with the highest finishes being first runners-up in 2016 and 2020.
For years, obstacles and even scandals threatened to overshadow the country’s potential on this global stage. But the turn of the decade saw a rising tide of determination, culminating in a defining moment when Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza claimed the 2024 crown under extraordinary circumstances.
Now, as the 2025 edition of the pageant commences, the country has sealed its growing legacy by winning back-to-back titles—transforming past struggles into a triumphant chapter of national pride and resilience.
Emma’s Reign Supreme
For the second consecutive year, the Philippines claimed the coveted Miss Grand International crown, with Emma Mary Tiglao’s stunning victory last night confirming the country's growing dominance on the global stage. The coronation night in Bangkok, Thailand, was a spectacular showcase of Filipino grace and confidence, as Tiglao not only bagged the Country’s Power of the Year award but also became the first in pageant history to win Miss Grand International back-to-back.
Behind this historic feat lies Emma’s journey marked by resilience and experience. A seasoned beauty queen, Emma was crowned as Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2019 and represented the country internationally. After a six-year break from pageantry to focus on her career as a news anchor, she made a powerful comeback this year, representing Pampanga with poise. Her crowning is a proud moment not only for Emma but for the Philippines, highlighting national pride and tenacity on the world stage.
CJ’s Golden Journey
Emma's win was preceded by a compelling story of resilience from Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza, who first brought the crown home for the Philippines in 2024. CJ’s journey to Miss Grand International was marked by unwavering determination and grace. Beginning her pageant career in 2012 seeking a scholarship, she persevered through local contests, eventually winning Miss Grand Philippines 2024 after a string of special awards and strong performances.
At the international 2024 pageant, she captured hearts worldwide with her eloquence and advocacy, ultimately finishing as first runner-up. However, CJ's reign took a dramatic turn when the original winner resigned amidst organizational controversies involving unmet commitments and mistreatment allegations. The title was then rightfully passed on to CJ, making her the first Filipina Miss Grand International.
Throughout her reign, she traveled to 11 countries extensively advocating for unity and kindness, embodying strength under pressure. Her inspiring journey not only uplifted the Filipino spirit but also set a powerful foundation for Emma Mary Tiglao’s successive triumph, marking a golden era for the Philippines in the global pageant scene.
The Philippines' turbulent chapter
Before the Philippines made history with back-to-back Miss Grand International victories in 2024 and 2025, the country's journey at the pageant was marked by a series of near misses and tough placements. Since joining the competition from its inaugural edition in 2013, Filipino representatives often reached the semifinals and finals but fell short of capturing the coveted crown.
The Philippines recorded two notable first runner-up finishes—Nicole Cordoves in 2016 and Samantha Bernardo in 2020—but the golden crown remained elusive despite consistent strong showings. Many of the country’s representatives were selected through Binibining Pilipinas, through appointment, or through the Miss Grand Philippines Pageant with high expectations but recurring heartaches.
Years of near misses and the turmoil surrounding the pageant, marked by allegations of mistreatment within the organization, revealed a challenging side behind the glitz. Yet, Filipino queens have persevered, turning setbacks into motivation to shine even brighter on the Miss Grand International stage.
Emma Mary Tiglao's historic back-to-back victory now symbolizes not only personal triumph but also the overcoming of past trials and the realization of Filipino excellence on the global stage. Her reign promises inspiration to countless aspiring Filipinas, showing that talent, heart, and perseverance can rewrite narratives and elevate national pride.
From CJ Opiaza’s ascension fraught with trial to Emma Mary Tiglao’s shining moment of glory, the Philippines' journey in Miss Grand International is a story of breakthrough and hope—an inspiring headline in the annals of beauty pageantry.
