SITTIE Norhanna Sangcaan of the Bangsa Maranao tribe captured hearts and the crown at Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2025, Thursday evening, August 14, 2025, at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) gymnasium, showcasing the pride, beauty, and rich traditions of her people.
Walking confidently on stage, Sangcaan carried the spirit of her tribe with every step, outshining 10 other candidates representing Davao City’s ethnolinguistic communities.
When asked during the final Q&A about the significance of her traditional attire, Sangcaan spoke with grace and conviction:
“I stand here not only as one, but also giving a great benefit for my traditional attires-not only my traditional attires but also the cultural heritage that I have in my Bangsa-because, I believe in what a philosopher once said to me: that it is very important for us not only to preserve it, but also to empower it and share it so that every cultural heritage shines brighter for every generation to come,” she said.
Her poise and cultural pride earned her not only the crown but also two special awards: Hiyas sa Dito Telecommunity and the Smart Choice Award. Her cultural presentation also placed in the top three, further highlighting her stage presence.
Other winners included Catherine Kate Oda of the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe, who was named Hiyas sa Panaghiusa 2025, and Jovie Otahi of the Ata tribe, crowned Hiyas sa Kalambuan 2025.
Otahi also wowed the judges with her Best in Cultural Presentation, singing her tribe’s songs and narrating their traditions with an angelic voice that left the audience mesmerized.
Sittie Hasmin Sultan, representing the Maguindanaon tribe, also made it to the top three for Cultural Presentation, announced earlier on August 9 at SM City Davao.
While only three candidates claimed the main titles, all participants were celebrated as Hiyas sa Kaliwatan, highlighting not just their beauty but the richness of their cultures.
Hiyas sa Kadayawan continues to be more than a pageant. It is a stage for Davao City’s Indigenous and Moro peoples to share their stories, celebrate their heritage, and inspire the next generation to carry their vibrant traditions forward. AJA