Filipina beauty queen Emma Mary Tiglao is crowned Miss Grand International 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand on October 18, 2025.

The Philippines has claimed yet another global crown, with Emma Mary Tiglao named Miss Grand International 2025 during the glittering coronation night held on Saturday (October 18). The 30-year-old Filipina beauty queen bested 76 other candidates to win the coveted title. Thailand’s Sarunrat Puagpipat finished as first runner-up in the pageant held at the MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand. Tiglao’s victory marks a historic back-to-back win for the Philippines, following the reign of fellow Filipina CJ Opiaza of Zambales, who inherited the crown last year after India’s Rachel Gupta relinquished her title. During the speech round, Tiglao used her platform to deliver a moving message rooted in empathy and hope. “As a journalist, my heart aches for my country drawn by corruption, for the lives lost to earthquakes and typhoons,” she began, her voice steady and impassioned. “We are not born in fear, but to hope, to love, and to live in peace. Peace begins when parents teach children compassion, leaders embody humility, youth finds their purpose. Let love be the grandest voice to peace.” Her speech earned a standing ovation from the crowd, underscoring her reputation as one of the most eloquent and prepared candidates in this year’s competition. Tiglao captivated audiences throughout the competition with her striking wardrobe choices that combined Filipino artistry and storytelling. For the evening gown competition, she stunned in a fiery orange and gold Rian Fernandez creation, featuring a sweeping feathered cape symbolizing the phoenix — a metaphor for rebirth and strength. Her national costume, titled “Mayari: The Lunar Empress of Pampanga,” paid homage to her Pampanga roots and the goddess of the moon, designed by Patrick Isorena. The costume, rich in symbolism and craftsmanship, celebrated the Philippines’ mythology and artistry. Even her arrival in Bangkok turned heads, as she walked through the airport in a Thai-inspired golden ensemble by Chico Estiva, shimmering under the lights like royalty. Fans online dubbed her “the most prepared Filipina candidate to date.” From her ethereal hooded gown by Jason Castillo at the sashing ceremony to her chic all-white Rich Sabinian interview outfit, every look was a statement — powerful, graceful, and distinctly Filipina. In the crucial Q&A round, Tiglao tackled a challenging global issue with poise. The question: “Scammers are an online threat, often tied to human trafficking. What penalties do you think could help dismantle these operations?” “As someone who reports these kinds of stories, I really want to use the power of balance — us people, to be educated and aware for us to not be scammed, and the help of the government, to enhance their justice system — for the scammers to be behind bars, to be accountable,” she said. “Because one day, I hope that we will live in a peaceful world where no one should deceive just to survive.” Her thoughtful response showcased both her journalistic background and her vision for a more compassionate, informed society.

A journey of grace and grit

Before her international triumph, Tiglao had already built an impressive résumé as a model, TV host, and pageant veteran. She represented the Philippines in Miss Intercontinental 2019, finishing in the Top 20, and was crowned Miss Grand International Philippines 2025 in August at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The 13th edition of Miss Grand International, organized by MGI PCL and its founder Nawat Itsaragrisil, once again celebrated “Stop the War and Violence” as its core advocacy — a message that Tiglao embodied perfectly. As the new Miss Grand International, Tiglao now steps into a global stage — not only as a symbol of Filipina beauty and intelligence but as a beacon of peace, compassion, and resilience. And as she said onstage, her voice — full of love — may very well be the “grandest voice to peace.” ICA/Expat Media
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