CJ Opiaza Officially Crowned Miss Grand International 2024, Making Pageant History for the Philippines

Christine Juliane “CJ” Hinkle Opiaza, who originally placed as first runner-up in the Miss Grand International 2024 competition, has officially ascended to the title following the reported resignation of the original winner, Rachel Gupta. With this development, CJ has become the first-ever Filipina to wear the Miss Grand International crown — a momentous achievement that has electrified the pageant world and brought immense pride to the Philippines.

The formal coronation ceremony took place on June 3, 2025, at the opulent MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand. Hundreds of pageant fans, dignitaries, and members of the international media gathered to witness the historic moment as the golden crown was passed on to Opiaza.

CJ’s crowning marks a significant milestone for the Philippines, which has now completed its collection of all six major international beauty pageant titles: Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Earth, Miss Supranational, and now Miss Grand International. Until this moment, Puerto Rico was the only country to have achieved the same feat.

The event was graced by Miss Grand International President Nawat Itsaragrisil, who personally officiated the coronation. As he placed the sparkling gold crown and sash on CJ’s head and shoulders, the room erupted in applause. Overwhelmed with emotion, CJ radiated pride, joy, and gratitude — her eyes welling up as the Philippine national anthem played in the background, underscoring the gravity of the moment.

CJ Opiaza’s journey has not only elevated her personal legacy but has also etched the Philippines’ name into the annals of global pageantry. Her triumph is seen as a symbol of resilience, beauty, and national pride, inspiring countless young Filipinos to pursue their dreams on the international stage.

As congratulations pour in from around the world, CJ remains grounded, expressing her gratitude to her supporters, mentors, and fellow countrymen. She has vowed to use her platform to champion causes close to her heart, including women’s empowerment, mental health awareness, and education.

With this crowning, the Philippines' presence on the global beauty pageant stage has been solidified like never before — and CJ Opiaza stands at its forefront, a queen not only of beauty but of legacy.