MANILA — Kathryn Bernardo has become the newest Filipino celebrity to receive a wax likeness from Madame Tussauds, with her figure formally unveiled at a public event in Makati City on Wednesday, July 9, ahead of its permanent installation at the attraction’s Hong Kong branch.
The reveal took place at the Glorietta Activity Center, drawing crowds of fans, media, and members of the entertainment industry eager to see the actress’s wax “twin” up close before it ships out for Hong Kong. The figure will officially go on public display there starting July 17.
A Global Milestone
Bernardo is now the fifth Filipino celebrity honored by Madame Tussauds, joining a roster that includes boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and beauty queens Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, as well as actress-host Anne Curtis.
Speaking at the unveiling, Bernardo reflected on what the honor represents beyond her personal career. She described the wax figure as proof that ambitious dreams are achievable and that Filipino talent deserves recognition internationally, adding that she hopes it inspires pride in fellow Filipinos.
Recreating a Career-Defining Moment
The figure captures Bernardo exactly as she appeared at the 2023 Seoul International Drama Awards, where she took home the Outstanding Asian Star award — a major milestone in her career and a moment of international recognition for Philippine entertainment. Sculptors reproduced the actress’s gown for the occasion, an original design by Filipino designer Martin Bautista, along with her hairstyle, makeup, and overall styling from that night.
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong said its team of artists worked meticulously to capture Bernardo’s likeness in detail, from her facial features down to her styling choices.
Wade Chang, Gateway Hong Kong general manager for Merlin Entertainments, said the addition reflects the attraction’s ongoing recognition of Filipino excellence across industries — citing achievements spanning pageantry, sports, television, and film. He noted that Filipino audiences and their enthusiasm have played a role in deepening the attraction’s engagement with fans from the Philippines.
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong’s official Instagram account also marked the occasion, celebrating Bernardo’s achievement as a proud moment for Filipino representation on the world stage.
A Family Affair
The Makati unveiling was a family celebration as much as a media event. Bernardo’s parents, sister, and nieces were on hand, along with fellow actress Maja Salvador. Also present were top ABS-CBN executives, including Cory Vidanes, Carlo Katigbak, and Lauren Dyogi, underscoring the network’s continued support for its longtime leading lady.
What’s Next
Once installed in Hong Kong, Bernardo’s figure will become part of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong’s interactive themed zones, where visitors can pose alongside wax figures of celebrities from film, music, fashion, sports, and pop culture. The attraction opens Bernardo’s exhibit to the public on July 17, giving both local fans and international visitors the chance to see the Kapamilya star’s likeness in person.
