Kathryn Bernardo's wax figure unveiled in Manila ahead of Hong Kong debut

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July 9, 2026 | 5:40pm

MANILA, Philippines — Actress Kathryn Bernardo has become the latest Filipino celebrity to be immortalized by Madame Tussauds, as the world-renowned attraction officially unveiled her wax figure during a launch event at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati on Wednesday, July 9.

The public unveiling gave fans an exclusive first look at Kathryn’s wax likeness before it is installed at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, where it will officially go on display beginning July 17.

For the actress, the wax figure represents more than a personal milestone.

"My wax figure is a reminder that big dreams are valid, and Filipino talent belongs on the global stage," Kathryn said. "At the end of the day, I'm just so proud to be here as a Filipina, and I hope it makes everyone feel the same about who we are and what we can do."

Kathryn is the fifth Filipino to receive the honor, joining fellow Madame Tussauds figures of beauty queens Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, and actress-host Anne Curtis.

The wax figure recreates Kathryn’s appearance at the 2023 Outstanding Asian Star Awards in Seoul, where she received international recognition for her work. It features the original gown designed by Filipino fashion designer Martin Bautista, which the actress wore during the ceremony.

According to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, the figure was crafted by its team of artists and sculptors, who meticulously replicated Kathryn's facial features, hairstyle, makeup, and styling to capture the actress' likeness.

Gateway Hong Kong General Manager for Merlin Entertainments Wade Chang said Kathryn's addition reflects the attraction's continued recognition of Filipino excellence across different fields.

"We recognize true Filipino talent that shines through different industries and categories — from pageants and sports to television and film," Chang said during the unveiling. "We can attest to the fact that Filipino talents and their supporters really are something else, so we do our best to continue growing this relationship and reach more Filipino audiences in our attraction."

The unveiling event was attended by Kathryn's family, friends from the entertainment industry, members of the media, and fans from the Philippines and overseas, many of whom gathered to witness the reveal before the figure's transfer to Hong Kong.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong features interactive themed zones dedicated to film, music, fashion, sports, and popular culture, allowing visitors to pose with lifelike wax figures of internationally renowned personalities. Kathryn’s figure will join the attraction's growing roster of Asian and global stars when it opens to the public on July 17.

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