Miss Grand International 2024 first runner-up CJ Opiaza. Image: Armin P. Adina/INQUIRER.net
When the Miss Grand Philippines teased this year’s edition on social media, the art card that accompanied the post showed “March 2025.” But, no, it does not mean that a new queen will be crowned this month.
CJ Opiaza, 2024 Miss Grand International first runner-up, said she will not be relinquishing her national title to a successor anytime soon, and the recent announcement only meant that applications have just been opened.
“Submission is now already open. For those who wanna apply, you can message Miss Grand Philippines, you can check out the Instagram or Facebook account for more information,” Opiaza told INQUIRER.net at the sidelines of 2025 Reina Hispanoamericana Dia Mate’s recent victory celebration at Savoy Hotel Manila in Pasay City.
“We are still trying to figure out how we are gonna make it grander this year, for the candidates and for the audience as well. I believe this is gonna be the grandest Miss Grand Philippines stage. I’m actually very excited about the production, also. So, I’m looking forward to that,” Opiaza shared.
She also said she is excited to hear about the ladies who have taken interest in joining the Miss Grand Philippines pageant this year, some of whom are seasoned beauties who are fan favorites as well.
“But for all the newbies, don’t be scared. Just try, especiallly the nationals, it’s gonna be a fun competition,” Opiaza said, addressing those who may have qualms about competing against veterans.
She also shared her thoughts about the collaboration between the once rival pageants Miss Grand International and Miss Universe, a development she admittedly got surprised upon learning.
“People were asking if I knew about it prior to the announcement. Sobrang nagulat din ako (I was also really surprised). But I was really happy when I saw it,” Opiaza said.
“It’s gonna be amazing. It’s gonna be a big stage. Everybody’s looking forward to it, even me. So, I just know Miss Grand International and Miss Universe is gonna be big this year. So I know everyone’s happy also, the fans,” she continued.
As the new organizer of the search for Thailand’s Miss Universe candidate, Miss Grand International founder Nawat Itsragrisil is also on top of the country’s hosting of the Miss Universe pageant this November.
Delegates from about 130 countries and territories around the world are expected to arrive in Bangkok by Nov. 4. while the coronation ceremonies will be held at the Impact Arena in the country’s capital city on Nov. 21.
As for the Miss Grand International pageant, Opiaza is optimistic that the Philippines will soon post its first victory, and hopes to crown a successor who is “someone who is ready for the challenge, someone who is also ready for fun.”
She added: “You have to challenge yourself, and if you can raise it, raise your energy for the competition, you’ll be able to clinch the first crown for the Philippines. And I’ll support you all the way.”