Mutya ng Dabaw 2025 crowns empowered women
THE Mutya ng Dabaw 2025 has crowned its new queens, each embodying 'kaalam' (wisdom), kaanyag (beauty), and gandang Dabawenya (the essence of a true Davao woman). But this year’s winners are more than just beauty queens—leaders, advocates, and changemakers, using their voices to champion meaningful causes.
This year’s competition introduced exciting changes, elevating the pageant beyond entertainment to a platform for empowerment.
One of the most significant updates was its revamped format, ensuring that each Mutya was not only beautiful but also a strong advocate for social causes. With 20 candidates competing for the prestigious title and the highest-ever cash prize of ₱450,000, the stakes were higher than ever. The new format included three question-and-answer segments, designed to rigorously test the candidates’ speaking skills and depth of advocacy. These changes marked a turning point for Mutya ng Dabaw, setting a new benchmark for empowering women who lead and inspire.
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Mutya ng Dabaw 2025: Rebekah Gail C. Celis
Among this year’s titleholders, Rebekah Gail C. Celis of Brgy. 19-B emerged as Mutya ng Dabaw 2025. A law student, paralegal, and events host, Celis was no stranger to the pageant. Returning stronger than before, she reaffirmed her commitment to her advocacy, The POWER Project, which provides support for survivors of violence and abuse. Passionate about women's rights, she aspires to create lasting change and help women reclaim their voices and futures.
Her eloquence and confidence in the final Q&A secured her victory. Asked about how the Philippines, as a smaller nation, can balance asserting its sovereignty in a globalized world, Celis said that education is the best investment for the Filipino people.
Quoting the 1987 Constitution’s preamble, she underscored the importance of educating citizens about their power as a unified nation. She reminded Filipinos that division weakens a country, but unity strengthens it. As she addressed the crowd, her words carried conviction: “We should fight for what we believe in, we should be pro-Filipino in every decision we make, and let us remember—change begins within you. I cannot change the world alone, but if I cast a stone in the river, it creates ripples that can change the world.”
Alongside Celis, four other remarkable women were crowned, each bringing a unique advocacy to the forefront.
Dana Gabrielle B. Tautho, a licensed geologist and environmental planner from Brgy. Buhangin Proper, was named Diwa ng Dabaw 2025. Committed to sustainability and Indigenous empowerment, she leads One Apparel, One Tree, a movement that merges fashion with reforestation. As a PhD student, she bridges environmental conservation with everyday choices, proving that sustainability is not just a concept but a lifestyle.
Winning the title of Sinag ng Dabaw 2025, Ybonne O. Ortega, a licensed physical therapist and master’s degree holder from Norway, used her platform to promote health and resilience. As the founder of You’re Stronger Than You Think, she encourages people to prioritize both physical activity and mental well-being, proving that strength goes beyond the physical.
For Katriana N. Batu, a farmer, industrial engineer, and entrepreneur from Brgy. Matina Crossing, sustainability, and food security took center stage. Crowned Pag-asa ng Dabaw 2025, she integrates productivity with environmental conservation, spearheading native tree-planting initiatives and advocating for responsible agriculture. She believes ensuring a greener future starts with mindful agricultural practices and entrepreneurship.
Meanwhile, Angel Alicaba of Brgy. Maa took home the title of Patnubay ng Dabaw 2025. A passionate advocate for culture and tourism, she aims to showcase Davao’s rich heritage globally. As a former exchange student, she values cultural exchange and seeks to amplify diverse voices, encouraging Filipinos to embrace their roots while fostering international connections.
Special awards
Beyond the five major titles, the competition recognized outstanding candidates with special awards. Hannah Dungog of Brgy. Catalunan Grande won Miss Congeniality, known for her warmth and camaraderie among fellow candidates. Nicole Sulla of Brgy. Centro took home Miss Photogenic, captivating the cameras with her striking beauty.
The stage also celebrated intelligence and elegance, with Dana Tautho winning Best in Gown and the Smart People’s Choice Award. At the same time, Rebekah Celis earned Best in National Costume, proving that tradition and grace go hand in hand while Nikki Tan of Brgy. Matina Crossing secured the Best Interview Award for her eloquence and insightful answers.
Honoring Mindanao’s vibrant heritage, Ybonne Ortega was awarded Best in Mindanao Tapestry, while Katriana Batu won Best in Tourism Video for her storytelling skills showcasing Davao’s beauty and culture.
More than just a pageant, Mutya ng Dabaw 2025 reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women who lead with purpose. This year’s winners proved that beauty is more than just appearances—it is about creating meaningful change. As they take on their new roles, they serve as beacons of hope, strength, and leadership, inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and make an impact.
The legacy of Mutya ng Dabaw continues—celebrating not just beauty, but the power of women to shape a better future for Davao and beyond. AJA