The energy was electric on Friday night, June 20, as 20 dazzling candidates took center stage for Reyna ng Davao 2025, a celebration not just of beauty and glamor, but of pride, identity, and resilience.
Chesca Montes from Barangay Toril was crowned as the new Reyna ng Davao 2025, joined by fellow queens who will undoubtedly continue to bring pride and promote inclusivity in Davao City.
Held as part of the city’s Pride Month festivities, the event drew an enthusiastic crowd that witnessed a show of elegance, authenticity, and community spirit.
The pageant opened with a stylish tribute to flight and freedom, celebrating the bounty and beauty of Davao City as contestants strutted down the runway in chic flight stewardess uniforms—symbolizing dreams and aspirations taking flight.
This was followed by a denim-themed runway segment that allowed each candidate to showcase individuality and confidence. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the message was clear: this was more than a competition — it was a platform for voices and visibility.
Before the main showdown, several queens were awarded for their standout performances in preliminary events.
Reyna 8, Angel Montenegro, took home both Best in Costume and Best in Runway, impressing judges with her strong stage presence. Reyna 1, Rubie de los Santos, won Best in Long Gown and the Smart People’s Choice Award, while Reyna 19, Nina Tanjay, was named Best in Interview for her poised answers during the closed-door pre-pageant session.
Other recognitions included Reyna Congeniality, awarded to Reyna 5, Rexy Pulangco, Reyna Photogenic to Reyna 2, Kylie Pasaje, and Best in Tourism Runway Video to Reyna 13, Jewel Obelidhon.
From top 20, only ten queens advanced to the semifinals, including standouts like Montenegro, Tanjay, and Chesca Montes, who steadily emerged as a fan favorite.
The semifinalists captivated the audience in the evening gown segment and showed intellect and conviction during the Q&A round, which determined the final three. The Top 3 — Nina Tanjay (Reyna 19), Chesca Montes (Reyna 12), and Sophia Eyana (Reyna 18) — faced a unique twist in the final segment: a witty “Yay, Nay, or Duh” round, where they responded to statements on social issues using placards before diving into a final interview. The segment was both light-hearted and revealing, giving the audience a sense of each finalist’s personality and beliefs.
Reyna 12, Chesca Montes, captivated both the judges and the audience with her grace, eloquence, and authenticity, ultimately earning the crown as Reyna ng Davao 2025.
Sophia Eyana was named 2nd Runner-Up and awarded the title Reyna ng Pagkakaisa, while Nina Tanjay secured 1st Runner-Up and the title Reyna ng Kapayapaan.
More than just a pageant, Reyna ng Davao 2025 was a celebration of visibility, strength, and pride for the LGBTQIA+ community.
It was a night that honored not only beauty and performance but also courage, conviction, and community. As the spotlight dimmed, the message rang loud and clear: in Davao City, pride is not just worn — it’s lived. AJA