The Philippines has once again captured the global spotlight as Emma Mary Tiglao was crowned Miss Grand International 2025, marking the first-ever back-to-back victory in the pageant’s history.

Tiglao succeeds fellow Filipina Christine Juliane (CJ) Opiaza, Miss Grand International 2024, cementing the country’s dominance on the international stage.

Tiglao bested 76 other candidates from around the world. Representing Pampanga, she also bagged the Country’s Power of the Year Award, which secured her a spot among the Top 22 finalists.

Joining Tiglao in the Top 5 were:

• 1st Runner-up: Sarunrat Puagpipat (Thailand)

• 2nd Runner-up: Aitana Carolina Jimenez (Spain)

• 3rd Runner-up: Faith Maria Porter (Ghana)

• 4th Runner-up: Nariman Battikha (Venezuela)

During the Q&A portion, Tiglao impressed both the judges and the audience with her thoughtful response to a question on global online scams and human trafficking.

“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. Because one day, I hope that we will live in a peaceful world where no one should deceive just to survive,” Tiglao said.

Earlier in the evening, Tiglao moved the audience with her advocacy speech, highlighting her roots as a journalist and her passion for peace and empathy.

“As a journalist, my heart aches for my country drawn by corruption, for the lives lost to earthquakes and typhoons, and for journalists like Mariam Abu Dagga from Gaza who died for truth,” Tiglao shared.

“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. And when we live with empathy and kindness, let love be the grandest voice to peace,” she added.

The 13th Miss Grand International titleholder, Tiglao now carries the mission of promoting peace and compassion on a global scale, following in the footsteps of her predecessor.

Her win not only reinforces the Philippines’ reputation as a pageant powerhouse but also symbolizes resilience, empathy, and the enduring grace of the Filipino spirit.