Bangkok, Thailand — October 18, 2025
History was made once again as Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza passed the crown to another Filipina during the Miss Grand International 2025 coronation night held in Thailand.
Emma Tiglao was proclaimed the winner of this year’s competition, besting over 70 candidates and securing a historic back-to-back victory for the Philippines.
A Stellar Line-Up of Finalists
Following Tiglao in the Top 5 were Sarunrat Puagpipat of Thailand (first runner-up), Aitana Carolina Jimenez of Spain, Faith Maria Porter of Ghana, and Nariman Battikha of Venezuela.
The Philippines’ Most Ready Delegate
The results came as no surprise to many pageant fans. Tiglao, both a pageant veteran and fan favorite, had long been considered the frontrunner. Weeks before her departure, the Miss Grand Philippines Organization called her the country’s “most ready delegate to date,” praising her experience, charm, and confidence.
Tiglao started the night strong, earning a spot in the semifinals after winning Country’s Power of the Year, a special award determined through social media votes — the first time the Philippines has claimed the honor.
A Voice for Peace
Miss Grand International is known for its “Stop the War” campaign, which encourages candidates to promote unity, love, and peace. During the coronation night, the Top 10 delegates each delivered their own Stop the War message before proceeding to the evening gown competition.
Staying true to her advocacy and background, Tiglao drew from her experience as a news anchor and journalist, sharing how her work has exposed her to the world’s harsh realities. She urged the public to speak up and work toward peace, earning admiration from both the audience and the judges.
A Queen’s Farewell
Before the announcement of the Top 5, reigning queen CJ Opiaza graced the stage for her emotional final walk. Reflecting on her journey from first runner-up to crowned queen, Opiaza said:
“I know I only assumed the crown, but I am forever grateful to be given this chance. People may have called me names and even belittled my win, but I hope you also understand that a true queen stands still and accepts the challenge.”
The Final Question That Sealed the Crown
In the final Q&A segment, the Top 5 finalists were asked how to dismantle online scammers linked to human trafficking. Tiglao’s thoughtful and articulate response sealed her victory:
“As someone who reports these kinds of stories, I really want to use the power of balance — for people to be educated and aware, so we won’t be scammed, and to help the government enhance the justice system so scammers are held accountable. Because someday, I hope we will live in a peaceful world where no one should deceive just to survive.”
A Reign Ahead
As the newly crowned Miss Grand International 2025, Tiglao is expected to have a busy year filled with global engagements, following in the footsteps of Opiaza’s numerous overseas trips during her short but impactful reign.
The Kapampangan beauty queen will pass on her crown in India, the announced host of Miss Grand International 2026.
With this back-to-back win, the Philippines continues to prove that Filipinas reign supreme not just in beauty, but in purpose, intellect, and heart.
