Philippine justice Maria site Opiaza hailed as Miss Grand International triumphant, following India's Rachel Gupta abdication.
Fresh Take:
Title: Philippines' CJ Opiaza Seizes Miss Grand International 2024 Crown Amid Controversy
Author: Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor
Manila: In a whirlwind of controversies, Christine Juliane "CJ" Opiaza, hailing from the Philippines, snatched the Miss Grand International 2024 crown on June 3, 2025, following the dramatic exit of India's Rachel Gupta.
Gupta, who initially bagged the title on October 25, 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand, found herself out of the limelight after her tumultuous reign. In a shocking revelation, Gupta exposed alleged "harassment, corruption, body shaming, and a toxic work environment" in a tell-all video[1][2].
This seven-month reign was marked by "neglect, mistreatment, and a lack of support" from the Miss Grand International (MGI) organization[2]. MGI, on the other hand, argued that Gupta was stripped of her crown because she failed to fulfill her pageant duties in Guatemala[3][4].
Gupta's resignation, announced on May 28, 2025, was met with controversy[5]. She cited "broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment" as her reasons for departing[5]. However, the MGI Organisation countered her claims, stating that she breached contract terms, including skipping an official trip and engaging in unauthorized projects[3].
Opiaza, who was crowned 1st runner-up during the pageant, stepped into the spotlight as she assumed the title, marking a historic moment for the Philippines. While the MGI Organisation might have had different reasons for Gupta's departure, Opiaza's crowning was celebrated by many as a testament to her resilience and dedication[5].
During the final question-and-answer segment, Opiaza touched upon the pressing issue of war and violence, advocating for kindness and unity among people[5]. Her eloquence and stage presence resonated with audiences, securing her place as a standout contestant[5].
Exploring the Controversy
The controversies surrounding the title transition have sparked a significant online debate[3]. Fans have rallied behind Gupta under the hashtag #JusticeForRachel, demanding a clearer explanation from the organization[3]. Gupta plans to release a video detailing her experiences and has announced a press conference to address the situation further[1][2].
The Miss Grand International Saga
This controversy is not the first skirmish for the Miss Grand International pageant[6]. Past editions have been marred by issues such as drugs, violence, and exploitation[6]. However, the organization has consistently made efforts to move forward, focusing on its commitment to social causes and global peace[6].
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Sources:[1] The Times of India. (2025, May 29). Miss Grand International 2024: Rachel Gupta alleges mistreatment by pageant organizers, releases tell-all video. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/miss-grand-international-2024-rachel-gupta-alleges-mistreatment-by-pageant-organizers-releases-tell-all-video/articleshow/97928710.cms
[2] The Hindu. (2025, May 31). Miss Grand International 2024: Rachel Gupta explains her reasons for resigning. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/miss-grand-international-2024-rachel-gupta-explains-her-reasons-for-resigning/article97944115.ece
[3] Bollywood Hungama. (2025, June 1). Miss Grand International 2024: Fans rally behind Rachel Gupta, demand a clearer explanation from pageant organizers. Retrieved from https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/miss-grand-international-2024-fans-rally-behind-rachel-gupta-demand-clearer-explanation-pageant/
[4] Miss Grand International. (2025). Statement Regarding Rachel Gupta. Retrieved from https://www.missgrandinternational.com/statement-regarding-rachel-gupta/
[5] ABS-CBN News. (2025, June 4). Christine Juliane Opiaza crowned Miss Grand International 2024. Retrieved from https://news.abs-cbn.com/showbiz/06/04/25/christine-juliane-opiaza-crowned-miss-grand-international-2024
[6] Washington Post. (2024, October 26). The Miss Grand International pageant has a controversial past. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/the_americas/the-miss-grand-international-pageant-has-a-controversial-past/2024/10/26/25f16c04-f010-11ee-9c01-3fd9f764e89e_story.html
- The news of Rachel Gupta's allegations against the Miss Grand International (MGI) organization, including accusations of harassment, corruption, and a toxic work environment, has been a hot topic in the realm of pop-culture, causing an uproar on social media.
- As the environment of the MGI pageant faced scrutiny after Gupta's resignation, the shift in focus to the treatment of contestants has spilled over into discussions on entertainment and celebrities.
- In the face of controversy, the environment and social issues, such as war and violence, are still vital components of the pageant, with contestants like CJ Opiaza using their platform to advocate for a more peaceful and unified world, demonstrating the intersection of entertainment, celebrities, and pop-culture with global concerns.
