Emma Tiglao Triumphs at Miss Grand International 2025 in Bangkok

Emma Mary Tiglao, a 30-year-old pageant veteran from Pampanga, secured a remarkable victory at the Miss Grand International 2025 competition held in Bangkok on October 18, 2025. After a decade of participation in various beauty pageants, Tiglao’s perseverance culminated in her winning the prestigious crown, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Tiglao’s journey in pageantry began in 2012 when she competed in Mutya ng Pilipinas, finishing as 1st Runner-up. From there, she continued to build her profile, placing in the Top 15 at Binibining Pilipinas 2014 and achieving 4th Princess at Miss World Philippines 2015. Her notable moment came in 2019 when she represented the Philippines at Miss Intercontinental 2019 in Egypt, where she reached the Top 20.

A brief hiatus in 2022 led many to believe that her pageant aspirations had come to an end. Yet, in 2025, she made a fearless return by entering Miss Grand Philippines, ultimately leading to her international triumph. During her time in the competition, she distinguished herself with a powerful Top 10 speech that addressed critical issues such as corruption and violence.

“As a journalist, my heart aches for my country, which is drowned by corruption,” Tiglao stated, highlighting the impact of natural disasters and the tragic loss of journalists in Gaza. She emphasized the importance of hope and compassion, stating, “Peace begins when parents teach children with compassion, leaders embody humility, youth find their purpose, and when we live with empathy and kindness.”

In a testament to her public appeal, Tiglao was fast-tracked into the Top 20 by winning the ‘Country’s Power of the Year’ vote, showcasing significant support from the audience. Her composure and grace captured the attention of both judges and fans alike.

The emotional moment of crowning saw outgoing queen CJ Opiaza, also from the Philippines, place the golden crown on Tiglao’s head. This victory not only marked a historic back-to-back win for the Philippines but also represented only the second time the nation has claimed the Miss Grand International title. Tiglao triumphed over 76 other delegates, with Thailand taking the position of 1st Runner-Up, followed by Spain in 2nd, Ghana in 3rd, and Venezuela in 4th.

Beyond her pageant success, Tiglao holds a degree in Tourism Management from Holy Angel University and has built a career in modeling across Cambodia and Malaysia, as well as in broadcast journalism in the Philippines. She has hosted programs for Eagle Broadcasting Corporation, including the nightly news on ‘Mata ng Agila’ and the morning show ‘Kada Umaga.’

Tiglao’s compassion has been evident throughout her career, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when she organized outreach initiatives for individuals deprived of liberty and frontliners at the BJMP Angeles District Jail.

As Miss Grand International 2025, Tiglao is expected to be based in Thailand and will embark on a global tour to support the organization’s ‘Stop the War and Violence’ campaign. Her reign begins with strong momentum and a nation of supporters behind her, positioning her to make a meaningful impact during her tenure.