NatCos competitiom

 MGI 2026 showcased "grand" creations

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte

The delegates of the 2026 Miss Grand International sizzled in their respective costumes, as designed and executed by their chosen designers.

The costumes, varying in size and theme, all presented a side of each country’s mythical/mythological, cultural, traditional, and even message to the world like Nepal’s prayer to recovery.

Reina Filipinas Grand International 2026 Angelica Lopez wowed the crowd with a gigantic “Mangkukulam” ensemble. The Patrick Isorena creation harkened to one of Filipino folklore’s most talked-about figures.

Aside from the Philippines, other great designs included that of Bolivia, Tanzania, Vietnam, and Hong Kong.

Those who watched “Forgotten Island,” were wondering if the costume got its aspiration from the Dreamworks’ animated feature - currently screening in cinenas. 

This year, there will be three winners of the National Costume Award – one from social media, one from the MGI web site, and one from the judges.

Hosted by Miss Grand queens Isabella Mennin (2022), Luciana Fuster (2024), and CJ Opiaza (2024), with reigning titleholder Emma Mary Tiglao, the National Costume Competition unfolded from the MGI Hall in Bangkok and was beamed live to a global audiece through the Grand TV channel on YouTube.