Miss Grand Philippines 2026 Angelica Lopez is proving that local lore belongs on the grandest stage with her mangkukulam-inspired national costume.
Photo: Angelica Lopez/Instagram
The beauty queen completely turned heads with her daring, show-stopping ensemble.
The jaw-dropping piece features a towering white-haired sorcerer backdrop, complete with massive sculpted hands, long dark claws, and puppet strings attached directly to Angelica’s body. To top it off, she wore a voodoo doll-inspired outfit—referencing the iconic puppets used by mangkukulams in Filipino dark magic.
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“Born from the shadows of Philippine folklore, where mystery meets mysticism and ancestral wisdom lives on. This is more than a costume. It is a tribute to the stories that shaped our imagination, the traditions passed down through generations, and the powerful spirit woven into our Filipino heritage,” Angelica wrote on Instagram, sharing the inspiration behind her look.
In Philippine folklore, a mangkukulam is a witch or sorcerer feared for their ability to cast curses and bring misfortune to others. Masterfully crafted by renowned designer Patrick Isorena, this unique tribute turned an eerie legend into pure art.
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Unsurprisingly, Angelica’s bold look immediately set the pageant community on fire, drawing praise from fellow queens and international fans alike.
”PASABOGGGGG!!!” commented Miss Asia Pacific Philippines 2024 Anita Rose Gomez.
”Not gonna lie! The Philippines has the best NC (national costume) this year,” a Malaysian pageant blog commented on the 25-year-old beauty queen’s post.
Angelica is gearing up to compete for the golden crown at the Miss Grand International finals night on October 25 at the MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand.
ALSO READ: PROUD PINOY: Filipino Designer’s Creation Wins Best National Costume at Miss Universe Haiti 2026
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