THE WOMEN representing Davao City’s 11 tribes in the Hiyas ng Kadayawan this year have their eyes on the main crown.
The coronation night will be held on Saturday, August 11.
This year’s pageant will feature a new crown that represents one of Davao City’s gems — the Waling-Waling or Vanda sanderiana.
Waling-Waling, which is endemic in Mindanao, is the queen of Philippine orchids. It is one of the icons of Davao City and featured in the Life is Here brand.
A lot of work had been invested into the making of the new crowns - from the conceptualization up to the actual creation.
“This year’s Hiyas ng Kadayawan crown is grander and more functional,” said Dan Salvana, Jr., who is Hiyas ng Kadayawan events director for the second consecutive year.
Kadayawan Festival was formerly called Apo Duwaling, a play on the icons of the city namely Mount Apo, Durian and the Waling-Waling.
Salvana said the design of the Hiyas ng Kadayawan crown changes each year. It has no permanent pattern.
“We wanted to have a crown that is inspired by the festival. We also wanted it to be more colorful,” he said.
Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) head Generose Tecson said the Hiyas ng Kadayawan crown has indeed evolved. Back in the days, the crown was heavier and bigger.
“This time, the crown is simpler but more elegant,” Tecson said.
Tres Roldan Cartera designed the Hiyas ng Kadayawan crown using lighter materials such as rhinestones.
The Hiyas ng Kadayawan grand winner will get the biggest crown while the runners-up will get almost identical but smaller versions of it.
Saldana said the CTOO will safekeep the crown for the Hiyas ng Kadayawan winner and the other Hiyas winners. The crowns will be used by the winners during official events. But when their terms end, they get to keep the crown. (CIO)