Joining the wax figures of Pacquiao, Catriona Gray, and Pia Wurtzbach is Anne Curtis-Smith at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
As Filipinos, we can’t help but feel pride when our talents are recognized in the global sphere. Whether through sports, beauty pageants, music, film, or other fields, it is an understatement to say that excellence runs in our veins. Among the bodies that continue to recognize Filipino talent is Madame Tussauds, famous for creating wax images of renowned people. In the hallowed halls of their wax museums are these Filipino icons who have left an imprint on the world in their own ways.
RELATED: Anne Curtis Makes History With Her Madame Tussauds Wax Figure
Pia Wurtzbach
Beauty queen Pia Wurtzbach is the third Filipino to be crowned Miss Universe, and Madame Tussauds’ first Filipino wax figure. It was a historic night for Filipinos as well, with it being the first time a wax figure has been flown to the personality’s home country before being placed in its permanent residence in the wax museum. During its unveiling, Pia and her wax figure nailed their twinning moment from the hairstyle and the accessories, down to the royal blue Swarovski-embellished gowns designed by Michael Cinco.
Manny Pacquiao
Renowned boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has made history for his boxing excellence, but he is also the first Filipino to have a wax image. Through his commitment and dedication to his sport for over 25 years, he has brought pride and excellence to his country with his boxing gloves, his many medals, and the world titles. The boxer’s wax figure was part of his achievement roster a month after his retirement.
The Pambansang Kamao made his figure extra special by donating his lucky boxing garments, now being worn by his wax twin.
Lea Salonga
We all know world-class singer Lea Salonga. Whether we first heard her in theatre or as Disney princesses Jasmine and Mulan, she is one of the Philippines’ pride and joy. With several awards as a singer and actress, the Broadway legend has left a remarkable and lasting impression from her performance as Eponine in the musical Les Miserables and Kim in Miss Saigon, which warranted a Tony and Olivier Award. Unlike the former, Salonga’s wax twin can be found in Singapore.
The singer’s wax figure was dressed in what Salonga called a “workhorse gown,” which she felt represented her personality the best when performing in many shows. Featuring a beautiful corset and crepe fabric, the gown was designed by Rajo Laurel, the Broadway star’s personal friend.
Catriona Gray
The Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray wax figure arrived in Hong Kong in September of last year. As the fourth Filipina to be Miss Universe, the beauty queen has continued to make a difference even after her reign six years later. For years, Gray has been a volunteer for a non-government organization to help underprivileged kids receive the quality education they deserve.
As the Madam Tussauds team worked closely with designer Mak Tumang, the wax figure was dressed in the beauty queen’ iconic lava gown, even capturing the details of her crowning moment from her hair to the stars and sun ear cuff, down to her Jojo Bragais shoes. This figure is a symbol of pride not only for Catriona Gray as Miss Universe 2018, but also for her commitment to her advocacy.
Anne Curtis-Smith
The latest and most recent Filipino to have her image immortalized is TV host and actress Anne Curtis-Smith, whose wax figure will be placed in the “Hong Kong Glamour Zone” as the first Filipino actress in the hall. With 25 years of experience in show business and several accolades, the actress is nothing short of deserving. Aside from her success as an actress, Curtis-Smith is also a fashion icon and an entrepreneur.
The wax twin’s beautiful cream Dior dress was donated by the it-girl herself, remembering that this was the dress she wore when Curtis-Smith returned to the world of fashion. With a microphone also in her hand, the actress considered this a tool of empowerment. May it be for hosting, singing, or speaking her advocacies, the microphone was a symbol to amplify her voice.
Featured Image and Photos: MADAM TUSSAUDS (via website)
