LOOK: CJ Opiaza stuns in Anahaw ensemble in Miss Grand International 2024 national costume
The Philippines' bet CJ Opiaza proudly waved the country's flag during the national costume competition of Miss Grand International 2024 as she rocked the stage wearing a costume inspired by the national leaf, Anahaw.
The Zambales-based beauty paraded fashion designer Patrick Isorena's stunning green and gold ensembles crafted with thousands of golden crystals, hardwire, and leaf-shaped fabrics.
Opiaza described Anahaw as victorious, an emblem of champion and a symbol of Filipino strength crafted out from a creative perspective representing their spirit of resiliency.
"A quintessence of valor, hard work, and ultimate victory[,] the round-leaf fountain palm, or most commonly known [as] 'Anahaw', is a Philippine national symbol that denotes Filipino strength of character, champion mindset and good fruits of labor," Opiaza wrote on Instagram.
Moreover, the ensemble was made with the colors of gold and green, paying homage to the "vivacious colors" of Miss Grand International.
Opiaza was crowned Miss Grand International Philippines on Sunday, Sept. 29, at Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City, succeeding Nikki de Moura.
Last week, she was announced as among the top 20 candidates for Best in Swimsuit at the international pageant.
The coronation night for Miss Grand International will be held in Thailand on Oct. 25.
Opiaza is aiming for the country's first-ever crown following its highest placements in the international pageant: Nicole Cordoves in 2016 and Samantha Bernardo in 2020.