The Philippines remains in fierce contention for another international beauty pageant crown after Angelica Lopez secured her place in the Top 25 at the Miss Grand International 2026 competition. The grand event took place on Saturday night, October 10, at the MGI Hall in Bravo BKK, Bangkok, Thailand.
Entering the competition as the reigning Reina Filipinas, Lopez advanced alongside 24 other delegates from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Her progression keeps alive the country’s aspiration for a historic “three-peat” victory following consecutive wins by Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza in 2024 and Emma Mary Tiglao in 2025.
Road to the Top 25 in Bangkok
Lopez arrived in Thailand in early September to begin weeks of rigorous pre-pageant activities, charity events, and preliminary challenges. Throughout the preliminary rounds, she caught the attention of pageant analysts and fans alike, bringing high energy to the swimsuit segment and showcasing her vocal abilities with a cover of “Breathless” in her official introduction video.
One of her most talked-about moments ahead of the coronation night was the national costume competition on October 7. Lopez stepped onto the stage wearing a striking 19-kilogram “mangkukulam” (witch) costume crafted by designer Patrick Isorena, bringing elements of traditional Philippine folklore to the international spotlight.
The Complete Top 25 Semifinalists
Lopez joins a diverse group of international delegates who advanced during Saturday night’s cut. The official Top 25 lineup features:
- Ecuador: Shyare Andrade (Power Award winner)
- Puerto Rico: Vicky Carbonel (Talent Award winner)
- Philippines: Angelica Lopez
- Tanzania: Jihan Mohin Dimachk
- Belgium: Emily Baesen
- USA: Victoria Oluwakotanmi
- Spain: Alba Maria Ruiz
- Vietnam: Emoura Pham
- Thailand: Patthama Jitsawat
- Peru: Zuliet Seminario
- Paraguay: Micaela Viveros
- Mexico: Pety Juarez
- Malaysia: Vyan Trisni
- Nigeria: Uzogheli Ifeoma
- Netherlands: Beau Megan Goos
- Honduras: Emely Carmelina Aleman
- Côte d’Ivoire: Marlène Kany Kouassi
- Costa Rica: Catalina Murillo
- China: Liu Mengmeng
- Chile: Ignacia Michelson
- Uruguay: Francie Millán
- Cuba: Alyanni Gomez
- Czech Republic: Hana Dědková
- Guatemala: Ximena Carrillo
- Venezuela: Lady Di Mosquera
Continuing a Legacy
Facing pressure to maintain the Philippines’ winning streak, Lopez has consistently addressed public expectations with composure. In interviews leading up to the grand finals, she noted that feeling pressure is a natural part of representing one’s home country and that she has focused entirely on her personal growth and performance on the global stage.
As the competition progresses toward the final crowns, supporters can stream live updates and follow the remainder of the coronation via the official GrandTV YouTube channel.
