CHRISTINE “CJ” Opiaza secured the first runner-up honors as the "golden crown" at the Miss Grand International pageant remained elusive for the Philippines.

Held in Thailand on Friday night, October 25, Rachel Gupta made history for India by winning the crown, outperforming 67 other contestants at the MGI Hall in Bangkok.

Gupta succeeds last year's titleholder, Luciana Fuster of Peru.

The final five included second runner-up Thae Su Nyeim from Myanmar, third runner-up Safietou Kabengele from France, and fourth runner-up Talita Hartmann from Brazil.

In a notable moment during her final walk, Opiaza, adorned in a sleek silver cutout column gown, experienced a brief stumble but quickly regained her composure, continuing her signature pasarela with grace.

Despite the impressive performance, the Philippines remained without a Miss Grand International title.

Previous notable contenders from the country include Nicole Cordoves and Samantha Bernardo, who both finished as first runner-up in 2016 and 2020, respectively.

Roberta Tamondong also ranked among the five fifth runners-up in 2022.

Opiaza was sent to represent the Philippines by the ALV Pageant Circle, managed by Arnold Vegafria, who has held the Miss Grand Philippines franchise since last year.

Opiaza claimed her national title just days before heading to the international competition on September 29.(CMM)

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• #Christine CJ Opiaza
• #First Runner-Up
• #Miss Grand International
• #Thailand
• #Rachel Gupta
• #Luciana Fuster