SHE literally stumbled in the semifinals but Clydel June Tabacolde's star shone the brightest last Saturday, March 2, at the RMC Petro Gazz Arena as she was crowned the new Mutya ng Davao.

The physical therapist intern of the San Pedro College aced 15 finalists for the search of ambassadress of goodwill of Davao City.

The search for the city’s Mutya has been one of the highlights of the annual celebration of the Araw ng Davao. Over 80 empowered Dabawenyas screened for the pageant, but only 15 were chosen for the finals.

Jeriza Uy, meanwhile, was named Diwa Ng Davao bagging most of the minor awards, and Eula Cristine Napuli as Sinag Ng Davao.

Completing the top six are We'am Ahmed, Ybonne Ortega, and Regine Anillo.

All the contenders were asked the same question, "There are women who are suffering silently in the dark because of abuse and discrimination. As a Dabawenya, what is your message to these women for them to regain courage and shine again?"

"As your probable Mutya ng Davao 2019, I will use my platform to communicate to women not only in Davao but also the whole Philippines by using social media. With that, I will send a message to them that you’re not alone, you have us, you have me and I have other people that will help us gain together, work together to bring up each other’s courage and respect for one another. Let us give inspiration to one another and live with dignity," she said.

In an interview after the coronation, Tabacolde vowed to push forward her advocacy.

"As a PT intern, I would like to push forward my advocacy in helping the people who are not privileged enough to afford the benefits of having a PT treatment," the newly-crowned Mutya said.

She said she dedicated her win to her family and supporters.

It was Tabacolde's first try for Mutya ng Davao.