The spirit of Pride Month radiated across Ayala Malls Abreeza on June 16, 2025, as 20 stunning candidates from various barangays in Davao City competed in the preliminary round of Reyna ng Davao 2025. More than just a celebration of beauty, the event brought together pageantry, pride, and powerful storytelling in one vibrant stage.
The preliminary round turned into a cultural showcase as candidates impressed the crowd with national costumes inspired by iconic Philippine landmarks. These creations were not only visually stunning but also deeply personal, reflecting each queen’s identity and pride as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. The winner of the Best in National Costume will be announced during the grand finals.
According to Jennifer Romero, Officer-in-Charge of the Davao City Tourism Operations Office, Reyna ng Davao is more than just a beauty competition—it’s a transformative platform that highlights talent, advocacy, and empowerment.
Romero emphasized that this event provides a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can feel seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.
"This is more than just a pageant. It reflects what Davao stands for—a city that respects, embraces, and empowers. A city where you can be yourself. A city that continues to say: Discover Davao, celebrate diversity, and shine for everyone," Romero said.
As each candidate introduced themselves, the stage lit up with elegance and confidence. Wearing breathtaking gowns, they walked with grace and purpose, each one bringing a unique story to the spotlight—stories of resilience, acceptance, and pride. More than just dazzling looks, these queens carried with them the hopes and voices of their communities.
In the Tourism Runway video segment, five candidates stood out for their charisma and screen presence: Reyna 2 Kylie Pasaje of Barangay Mandug, Reyna 5 Rexy Pulanco of Barangay Sto. Niño, Reyna 9 Exur Ranoa of Barangay Catalunan Pequeño, Reyna 12 Chesca Montes of Barangay Toril, and Reyna 13 Jewel Obelidhon of Barangay 9-A Marfori. The winner of this segment will also be revealed on finals night.
Adding to the excitement was the unveiling of three new crowns designed by artist Liza Nia. The crowns featured interlocking gender symbols, representing the LGBTQ+ community’s continued pursuit of justice, liberation, and visibility. They are more than accessories—they are powerful symbols of identity and unity, perfectly capturing the essence of Pride Month.
This preliminary round will determine who among the 20 queens will move forward as the Top 10 finalists. As the competition intensifies, so does the anticipation for the grand coronation night set for Friday, June 20, at the RMC Petro Gazz Arena.
Reyna ng Davao is not just a beauty pageant—it is a celebration of self-worth, identity, and the right to shine. So, who will rise and wear the crown? We’ll find out soon.