Emma Tiglao calls for 'unity' and 'encouragement' following her Miss Grand Philippines 2025 win
Fresh from her Miss Grand Philippines 2025 victory, Emma Mary Tiglao is opening up about her journey to the crown.
The 30-year-old beauty queen from Pampanga took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post about her win last Aug. 24, calling it a significant comeback and the start of a new chapter in her career.
"It wasn't the quantity of waiting time, but the quality of the dream I held on to," she began. "My heart is overflowing with gratitude. Every ounce of hard work, every sleepless night, every tear I've shed, every doubt I've battled, every training, and every sacrifice I've made have all led me to this moment. And with all my heart, I can truly say it was worth it."
Tiglao's victory is not just her own; she dedicated the crown to everyone who supported her along the way.
"It belongs to everyone who prayed for me, guided me, believed in me, and never left my side. Maraming salamat po from the bottom of my heart. This crown is for you," she shared, acknowledging her family, friends, and fans.
Tiglao also used her platform to deliver a powerful message about the true essence of pageantry. She urged an end to negativity and a shift toward a more supportive and empowering community.
"More than the crown or title, I hope this moment reminds us that pageantry should never be about hate or tearing someone down. Words are powerful enough to inspire hope or cause pain," she emphasized.
"Let's choose to uplift, to encourage, and to celebrate each other's dreams. Because at the end of the day, we are all dreamers, each waiting for the moment destiny calls our name."
With the Miss Grand International crown in sight, Tiglao assured her supporters that the fight is far from over.
Representing Pampanga, Tiglao won the highly coveted title, besting 28 other candidates. She was followed by Bicolandia's Margarette Briton and Rizal Province's Beatriz Angela Ocampo, who won first and second runner-up, respectively.
Other winners include Zambales' Anita Rose Gomez, who won Miss Asia Pacific International Philippines; Aklan's Beatriz Abalajon McLelland, who bagged Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas; Quezon City's Nikki Buenafe, who was named as Face of Beauty International Philippines; and Taguig's Michelle Arceo, who won Miss Tourism World.
With her feat, Tiglao is now set to be the country's representative at the Miss Grand International 2025, which is slated for Oct. 18 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Tiglao also competed in Miss Intercontinental in 2019 as Miss Philippines, where she had a Top 20 finish.