Hannah Kolecheril Crowned Mutya ng Dabaw 2026, Leading a Court of Dedicated Advocates
In a grand coronation held on Friday evening, March 20, 2026, at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium, Davao City welcomed its new Mutya ng Dabaw, Hannah Kolecheril. The 19-year-old Filipino-Indian from Barangay Buhangin, a second-year Biology student, was crowned alongside her court, embodying the spirit of leadership and determination that defines a true Gandabwenya.
A Surprising Victory with a Powerful Message
Kolecheril did not anticipate her win, especially as she received no minor awards during the competition. However, she dominated the coronation night with her compelling statements. Her final answer to a question about using Davao City's culture of security to advocate for global peace in the Middle East crisis sealed her victory. She emphasized that security and culture are rooted in education, stressing the need for dialogue and meaningful conversations to address political issues affecting human lives.
"And that is my role as Mutya ng Dabaw, to have that engaged dialogue because politics will haunt us in our wages, our fuel, and our education. And we must talk about politics like it's a life and death situation because Filipino lives, no, human lives, are quite literally on the line," Kolecheril stated. Known for her leadership, she advocates for victims of substance use disorder, promoting treatment over stigma and public awareness.
The Court of Gandabawenyas: Wisdom and Beauty in Action
Joining Kolecheril are four other titleholders, each bringing unique strengths and advocacies to their roles:
- Joanna Ubas, crowned Diwa ng Dabaw, is an interdisciplinary studies student and athlete. She aims to amplify the voices of the voiceless through engagement and digital storytelling.
- Christine Bermudo, crowned Sinag ng Dabaw, is a lawyer and accountant. Her advocacy, the Batang May Boses program, focuses on empowering children through legal literacy.
- Cerlyn Cabanit, crowned Pag-asa ng Dabaw, seeks to empower communities via research-driven literacy through Project Kaalam.
- Robynn Lee, crowned Patnubay ng Dabaw, is a former Mutya ng Dabaw 2020 candidate. Her advocacy centers on women's reproductive health, inspired by her experience with PCOS, aiming to educate and destigmatize women's health issues.
Special Awards and Recognitions
Beyond the major titles, the pageant honored candidates for outstanding performances in preliminary competitions. Laureana Santos of Barangay 76-A was named Miss Congeniality for her warmth and friendliness, while Angela Famador of Barangay Lubogan received Miss Picture Perfect. Jahmelca To-Ong of Barangay Talomo earned Miss Photogenic and Best in Playsuit and Wings.
Christine Bermudo was recognized for her intelligence and elegance, winning Best in Preliminary Interview, Best in Preliminary Gown, Miss Love and Styles, and the PLDT Smart People’s Choice Award. Nicole Fontillas of Barangay Alfonso Angliongto Sr. was declared Best in Davao City-Inspired Costume, and Joanna Ubas was named Best in Tourism Video.
Farewell to the Previous Court
As the new Mutya was crowned, Mutya ng Dabaw 2025 Rebekah Celis took her final walk with her court: Diwa ng Dabaw Dana Gabrielle B. Tautho, Pag-asa ng Dabaw Katriana N. Batu, and Patnubay ng Dabaw Angel Alicaba. They reflected on their transformative journey, noting how quickly the year passed and the lasting impact of their experiences.
This edition of Mutya ng Dabaw not only celebrated beauty but also highlighted the powerful role of advocacy and community leadership in shaping a better future for Davao City and beyond.
