Filipino beauty queen and broadcast journalist Emma Mary Tiglao has brought honor to the Philippines after winning the Miss Grand International 2025 crown during the pageant’s grand coronation night held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Radiant in a Rian Fernandez gown, Tiglao captivated judges and audiences with her confidence, eloquence, and heartfelt advocacy throughout the competition. Competing against 76 delegates from around the world, she impressed in all segments, from the swimsuit and evening gown presentations to her commanding speech and poised final question-and-answer performance.
Tiglao’s victory comes a year after Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza’s historic Miss Grand International 2024 title, giving the Philippines another golden crown and continuing its strong presence on the global pageant stage.
In her speech aligned with the pageant’s advocacy, “Stop the War and Violence,” Tiglao delivered a moving message grounded in her experience as a journalist. She spoke about the pain of seeing lives lost to natural calamities and corruption and paid tribute to journalists who risk, and sometimes lose, their lives in pursuit of truth.
“We are not born in fear, but to hope, to love, and to live in peace,” Tiglao declared. “Peace begins when parents teach compassion, when leaders show humility, and when we all choose empathy and kindness. Let love be the grandest voice to peace.”
During the final Q&A, the candidates were asked about the global rise of online scams and human trafficking. Drawing from her understanding of social issues, Tiglao emphasized awareness and accountability.
“Education and awareness are powerful weapons,” she said. “We must strengthen justice systems to hold scammers accountable so that one day, no one will need to deceive just to survive.”
Tiglao ultimately bested Thailand’s Sarunrat Puagpipat, Spain’s Aitana Carolina Jimenez, Ghana’s Faith Maria Porter, and Venezuela’s Nariman Battikha, who completed the Top 5.
Under the guidance of Miss Grand Philippines national director Arnold Vegafria, Tiglao’s pageant journey showcased her maturity, authenticity, and strong sense of purpose. Her background as a TV host and news anchor gave her a distinct edge, helping her communicate with sincerity and conviction on stage.
Beyond her crown, Tiglao’s win symbolizes the strength, grace, and compassion of the modern Filipina, a woman who leads with both intellect and heart. As she begins her reign as Miss Grand International 2025, she carries with her not only the pride of a nation but also a message that beauty, when paired with empathy and purpose, can truly be a voice for peace.
