Filipina CJ Opiaza crowned Miss Grand International 2024

Filipina beauty queen Christine Juliane "CJ" Opiaza has been officially crowned Miss Grand International 2024, becoming the first Filipina to hold the title.

She took over the title from India's Rachel Gupta after her resignation and was crowned by MGI founder Nawat Itsaragrisil.

Opiaza, 26, from Zambales, stated, "I know the best things happen for a reason."

The Miss Grand International pageant updated its social media cover photo to feature Opiaza, replacing a previous image that included Rachel Gupta.

Disgraced runner-up Thae Su Nyein from Myanmar was not included in either cover image.

Third runner-up Safietou Kabengele from France, who had previously criticized Gupta, remains in the updated cover photo.

Fellow queens Ahtisa Manalo and Winwyn Marquez have expressed their support and congratulations for Opiaza's win.

Manalo noted Opiaza's journey as a testament that dreams can be delayed but eventually realized.