Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee (left) and Miss Grand International 2024 CJ Opiaza. Photos from Instagram: @michelledee, @cjopiaza

Former Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) Michelle Dee was among those who expressed excitement for fellow Filipina beauty queen CJ Opiaza, who is set to become the new Miss Grand International 2024. 

As first runner-up, Opiaza is set to take over the role vacated by Rachel Gupta of India.

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On Instagram Stories, Dee reposted a teaser of Opiaza as the new MGI 2024. In the caption, she wrote: "It's her time! The queen that you are!"

Dee's cousin, MUPH 2025 first runner-up and Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 Winwyn Marquez, was also happy for Opiaza. "If it's meant to be, it's meant to be!" she declared.

Screenshots from Instagram Stories: @cjopiaza

Also congratulating Opiaza is Dia Mate, who followed in Marquez's footsteps this year as the second Reina Hispanoamericana titleholder.

"The first golden crown for the Philippines!" she declared.

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Messages of support were also sent by Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold, Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Francine Reyes, Miss Grand Philippines 2024 first runner-up Jubilee Therese Acosta, and Face of Beauty International 2024 Isabelle Bilasano, among others.

Opiaza reposted all their greetings, along with those coming from MGI executives and her batchmates in the pageant.

She has yet to make a direct statement about her appointment as the new titleholder, but it's safe to say that she is happy and grateful for all the love she has been receiving from the pageant community.