Filipino beauty queen Christine Juliane 'CJ' Opiaza poised to become new Miss Grand International 2024 as fans congratulate
Christine Juliane 'CJ' Opiaza of the Philippines (Images courtesy of Instagram)
Following Rachel Gupta's resignation, the Miss Grand International Organization has not yet announced a new titleholder.
Pageant fans believe that the title will likely be awarded to Christine Juliane "CJ" Opiaza from the Philippines, who was the first runner-up at the 2024 Miss Grand International pageant held last October.
Fans flooded her social media accounts with congratulatory messages ahead of the possible announcement.
As stated by pageant organizers in major competitions, if the winner is unable to fulfill her responsibilities, the first runner-up will assume the role.
On May 28, Rachel announced on social media that she was stepping down as Miss Grand International 2024 due to "broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment."
Shortly thereafter, the MGI announced on social media that Rachel had been removed from her title. The full announcement of MGI on the termination of Rachel's title:
"The Miss Grand International Organization hereby announces the termination of Miss Rachel Gupta’s title as Miss Grand International 2024, effective immediately.
"This decision follows her failure to fulfill her assigned duties, engagement in external projects without prior approval from the organization, and her refusal to participate in the scheduled trip to Guatemala.
"As a result, the organization has resolved to revoke her title with immediate effect. Miss Rachel Gupta is no longer authorized to use the title or wear the crown associated with Miss Grand International 2024.
"We request that the crown be returned to the MGI Head Office within 30 days from the date of this notice," the MGI added.