The top 20 official candidates of Reyna ng Davao 2026 were introduced to the public during the Official Sashing Ceremony and Press Conference held at Seda Abreeza Hotel in Davao City. The event is a key part of the month-long Duaw Davao Festival 2026 celebration, which highlights the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Reyna ng Davao, recognized as one of Davao City's major Pride Month events, continues to serve as a platform for the LGBTQIA+ community to promote advocacy, inclusivity, and empowerment. The pageant goes beyond beauty and glamour, focusing on meaningful contributions to society.
The 20 candidates come from various barangays across Davao City. They include Kylie Noelle Pasaje of Mandug, Keysi Guidotti of Tugbok, Elle Manuel and Ahriana Nicole Aguitong of 76-A Bucana, Daniela Baliad of 22-C Piapi Boulevard, Jesse Robles and Sarah Andrea Ronquillo of Talomo Proper, Kylie Kristine Rallos, Bianca Marie Williams, and Ava Orias of Cabantian, Juvie Dejarme of Ma-a, Yassi Oncada of Los Amigos, Cassy Lopez of Bago Aplaya, Sam Elisha Garcia of 76-A Bucana, Ani Sa of Talomo, Eugene Requilmen Omboy of Buhangin, Sharpay Dalog of Calinan, Emz Eloise Ahon of Matina Aplaya, Cris Ian of 19-B, and Micah Maxine Salera of Duterte.
During the ceremony, reigning queens Chesca Montes (Reyna ng Davao 2025), Nina Tanjay (Reyna ng Kapayapaan 2025), and Sophia Eyana (Reyna ng Pagkakaisa 2025) shared words of encouragement with the aspirants. They urged the candidates to embrace their individuality and stay true to their purpose throughout the competition.
Montes advised the candidates to pursue their dreams fearlessly despite insecurities. "Never stop chasing your dreams. Never stop taking spaces where you are confident, where you are seen, and where you are heard," she said. She also reminded them that imperfections should not hinder their progress. "Maybe I'm not perfect, and maybe I'm not within the standards that people expect, but just give your best in everything you do, and God will take care of the rest," she added.
Tanjay emphasized that Reyna ng Davao is a platform rooted in service. "You must know your cause, your reason, and your purpose in life," she said. "The reason why you are here is to have the heart to serve and inspire other people from all walks of life." She encouraged authenticity, stating that every journey has a happy ending as long as one remains true to oneself.
Eyana highlighted the power of individuality. "Don't be afraid to show your authentic self because it will make you shine the brightest," she said.
City Tourism Operations Office officer-in-charge Willenito Tormis Jr. underscored the importance of providing a stronger platform for the LGBTQIA+ community. "This year we made it somehow bigger because I always believe that our DavaReynas deserve better. The Reynas deserve the stage, the platform, and they deserve for their voices to be heard," Tormis said.
He noted that the expanded visibility of Reyna ng Davao reflects the community's call for recognition and meaningful participation. "This year, we want our voices to be heard, and we want action for our community," he said in mixed English and Filipino. He stressed that the LGBTQIA+ community has a purpose and contributes significantly to industries and society.
Tormis encouraged members of the community to embrace their identities with pride. "That is why we should continue embracing our identity," he said.
The public is invited to support the candidates as they compete for the crown during the Grand Coronation Night on June 19, 2026, at the RMC Petrogazz Arena Gym.
