Did You Know? Gazini Ganados’ MGI All Stars Gown Was Inspired by Her Filipino-Palestinian Heritage

Gazini Ganados just had a stellar run as the country’s representative at the inaugural edition of Miss Grand International All Stars. Among the defining highlights of her stint was the evening gown segment, where she received a perfect score of 10 from five judges—which ultimately secured her place in the top five.

Gazini had pageant fans in a trance as she took the stage in an embellished, armor-like creation by Rian Fernandez. Complemented by sleek, pin-straight hair and bronzed makeup that accentuated her angular features, the 30-year-old was the picture of royalty during the evening’s final segment.

On Instagram, Rian revealed how the design pays tribute to Gazini’s Filipina-Palestinian heritage. “Gracing the stage of Miss Grand International All Stars, Gazini carries a message that beauty is most powerful when it stands for humanity,” the Filipino couturier wrote in his caption.

The custom piece is indeed an artisanal marvel. The floor-grazing silhouette is anchored by a sculptural neckline, marked by a rigid, architectural gold collar that extends across the shoulders.

Throughout the garment, gold metalwork takes center stage. Known as “pinukpok,” the traditional method involves hammering metal sheets with a chisel (sinsil) and mallet to produce elaborate ornamental motifs, as seen throughout the couture piece.

This metalworking technique creates a raised, embossed surface that resembles interwoven latticework and floral vines. For a touch of contrast, royal blue crystals and gemstones are encrusted along the center line of the bodice, drawing the eye downward and breaking up the monochromatic gold.

Down the floor-grazing skirt, intersecting geometric lines and diamond-pattern embroidery reference the woven motifs traditionally associated with the Palestinian keffiyeh. In Palestinian culture, the keffiyeh is a symbolic garment that stands as a symbol of Palestinian resistance and liberation.

The sweeping cape is finished with structured accordion pleats and pronounced chevron-inspired zigzag detailing, giving the garment a sense of movement as Gazini walked the stage.