Angelica Lopez, representing the Philippines, created a sensation with her "Ang Mangkukulam - The Witch Doctor" national costume at Miss Grand International 2026 on 7/10. Designed by Patrick Isorena, the elaborate outfit, inspired by Philippine folklore, quickly garnered widespread attention and praise from both local and international audiences. The performance, deemed "spine-chilling" and a "theatrical masterpiece" by many, showcased Lopez's stage presence and ability to embody her character despite carrying a 19-kilogram costume.
The costume, crafted as an installation art piece, featured a large, eerie sculpture of the Mangkukulam (a mythical witch from Philippine legend) on Lopez's back. Lopez herself transformed into a spiritual doll from her homeland's culture. As she moved, a hidden pulley system allowed the giant witch model to move in tandem, creating a visual effect that suggested the doll was controlled by magic. The performance began with sound effects and narration, drawing the audience into a world of darkness. The climax saw Lopez perform a gesture mimicking "pulling out her own heart," a powerful symbol of declaring war on curses and heightening the emotional impact for viewers.
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Angelica Lopez's massive costume on the competition stage. Photo: MGI |
According to ABS-CBN News, the costume honors traditional Philippine culture. Despite its horror and supernatural elements, it evokes the country's rich oral folk tales. Lopez explained that the imagery of a "doll pierced with needles but still moving forward" serves as an allegory for the resilience of the Filipino people. It represents their enduring spirit to fight and rise above pain, curses, and adversity.
The performance generated significant media buzz, with fans on various forums describing it as "goosebumps-inducing" and "eerie." Many lauded Lopez's demeanor and deep immersion in the character. Despite carrying a 19-kilogram costume and wearing high heels, she maintained her balance and confidence.
Pageant publications like Pageant Talk, Pageanthology, and The Philippine Pageantry praised the costume for its creativity, intricate design, and groundbreaking nature, distinguishing it from the more common glittery or warrior-themed outfits seen in previous competitions. Pageant All Stars even ranked it as the most impressive costume of the season.
The Miss Grand International organizers are currently holding a public vote across MGI platforms to determine the "Best National Costume" award, which will be announced at the final on the evening of 10/10.
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Angelica Lopez poses in an evening gown backstage at the semi-final, on the evening of 7/10 in Thailand. Photo: @maktabuzo |
Angelica Danao Lopez, 26, is a model and entrepreneur. Standing 1.73 meters tall with sharp features, she brings significant pageant experience to the competition, having previously been 1st runner-up at Miss Asia Global 2022, and winning Binibining Pilipinas International 2023 and Reina Filipinas Grand International 2026. Lopez is pursuing a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Palawan State University.
This 14th season of Miss Grand International has featured over two weeks of cultural experiences, talent competitions, swimwear rounds, and various voting stages. This year, the organizers introduced a format change, reserving one spot in the top 5 for the contestant who receives the highest audience rating.
Miss Grand International was founded in 2013 by Thai national Nawat Itsaragrisil. The competition aims to spread a message of peace and advocate for an end to war and violence. Held annually, it rotates among various countries. Vietnam has hosted Miss Grand twice: in 2017 (An Giang) and 2023 (TP HCM).
Tan Cao
