MANILA — Before announcing her participation in the Miss Grand International (MGI) All Stars pageant, Gazini Ganados made sure to tell one person first: reigning MGI titleholder Emma Tiglao.
Speaking to GMA News Online, Gazini said she called Emma while she was in Italy to share her plans. “She was so happy for me and excited that we’d be closer again,” Gazini recalled.
The two queens go back to Binibining Pilipinas 2019, where Gazini won Miss Universe Philippines and Emma took the Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental title. Emma later achieved international success, winning Miss Grand International in 2025.
Emma’s encouragement, Gazini noted, reinforced the need to approach the All Stars edition with proper preparation. “Her advice was to have fun, stay grounded, and work smart. I realize now that planning ahead is key, something I didn’t fully do in the past,” she said.
Pageantry also requires stamina, she emphasized. “They reminded me to care for my health, drink vitamins, and be ready for long, tiring days,” she shared.
As MGI continues its bold, business-driven vision under Nawat Itsaragrisil, Gazini said she is confident in adapting. “I’ve adjusted a lot in showbiz, and I can respect and follow any rules MGI has,” she said.
Seeing Emma enjoy her reign provides Gazini with additional motivation. “Emma’s success shows me it’s possible to thrive and have fun. If she can do it, I might as well,” she said.
Gazini, who was a Top 20 semifinalist in Miss Universe 2019 and bagged Best National Costume, will join Philippine contenders Keylyn Trajano, Alexia Núñez, and Fuschia Anne Ravena in the All Stars pageant. This edition is open to all women and trans women between 20 and 40 who have competed in international pageants before.
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