Shyare Andrade clarifies pageant travel expenses and receives homecoming welcome

Shyare Andrade, the first runner-up at Miss Grand International 2026, has addressed recent controversies regarding her departure from Thailand. During a press conference in Guayaquil, Andrade clarified that she faced unexpected expenses for additional luggage that she had to cover using part of her prize money. She noted difficulties with using her credit card in Thailand and the need to exchange currency to baht. The Concurso Nacional de Belleza (CNB) stated that the organization will reimburse her for these additional costs.

Following her return to Ecuador, Andrade received a warm welcome from supporters and family at the José Joaquín de Olmedo airport. In her home province of Manabí, a large caravan was organized in Portoviejo to celebrate her achievement. Despite heavy rain, crowds gathered along the Portoviejo-Crucita road to participate in the procession, which included a motorcade through the city streets to honor the pageant contestant.