Binibining Davao de Oro ‘Redefines Beauty’ by Breaking Pageant Stereotypes

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Binibining Davao de Oro continues to redefine beauty by challenging long-held pageant stereotypes, highlighting that today’s candidates are more than just faces on stage but empowered women with purpose and advocacy. This was evident during the successful coronation night held on March 7 at the Bulawan Events Center.

Through meaningful platforms such as tourism promotion, disaster preparedness, and environmental awareness, the candidates embodied the strength, resilience, and “golden hearts” of the “Bulawanong Katawhan” of Davao de Oro.

This message was further emphasized in the winning answer of Binibining Davao de Oro 2026 Jan Marie M. Nazareno from the Municipality of Maco. In her response, she highlighted that despite the province’s diversity in culture, religion, and beliefs, the ability of the people to unite and work toward a shared vision of progress is what truly makes the people “golden.” She added that she aspires to be a transformative leader who advocates for united action toward a sustainable and inclusive province.

“Davao de Oro is home to diverse people. We are people of different backgrounds, different cultures, different religions, and different beliefs. And yet, despite our diversity, what makes us Bulawanon is our ability to unite, because we share a common goal, and that is sustainable and inclusive progress for Davao de Oro. As your Binibining Davao de Oro, I choose to be a transformative leader, one who raises awareness to causes that are relevant to our community and turns that awareness into unified action… I believe that when we stand united in action, we hold formidable power to shape a golden future as one Malamboong Probinsya and Bulawanong Katawhan of Davao de Oro,” she said.

Beyond its message of empowerment, this year’s pageant also broke conventions through innovative production elements. A live string quartet accompanied the swimwear competition, while a DJ performed during the evening gown segment. LED lighting effects were also incorporated into the production number—creative choices that initially raised a few eyebrows but were ultimately well received by the audience.

Nazareno received P100,000 in cash and P100,000 worth of gold as the new Binibining Davao de Oro. She also earned several special awards, including Best in Tourism Vlog, Most Photogenic, and Most Eloquent, with additional cash prizes—bringing her total winnings to P230,000.

Meanwhile, Marielle Samantha P. Aldeano of Maragusan was named Bb. Davao de Oro Kalamboan, receiving P70,000 in cash and 30 grams of silver. She also bagged the Miss Congeniality and Best Performer awards, each with a P5,000 cash prize.

Dionely E. Amistad of Mabini was crowned Bb. Davao de Oro Kinaiyahan, receiving P50,000 in cash and 30 grams of silver. She dominated several major categories, winning Best in Casual Attire, Best in Swimsuit, and Best in Evening Gown, each with a P10,000 cash prize.

Placing as 3rd runner-up was Lady Joy P. Jongoy of Laak, who received P30,000 in cash and 20 grams of silver. Tehrose Trizsha R. Delos Reyes of Monkayo was named 4th runner-up, receiving P25,000 in cash and 25 grams of silver, and was also voted Tourism Vlog People’s Choice Awardee, earning an additional P5,000.

The remaining contestants each received P20,000 in cash as consolation prizes.

The selection committee was headed by renowned “Queenmaker” Jonas Gaffud, president of Miss Universe Philippines, and included notable personalities in the industry such as Jojo Bragais, CEO of Bragais Shoes, actors Daniel Matsunaga and Jeric Gonzales, as well as beauty queens Chelsea Fernandez, Nicole Borromeo, Lars Pacheco, Myrna Esguerra, Kirk Popiolek, Dindi Pajares, and Jayvee Lyn Lorejo.

The event was hosted by Ms. Philippines Earth 2025 “Jusa” Joy Barcoma and Mr. Eco Philippines 2025 Kitt Cortez, while actors Derrick Monasterio and Enrique Gil serenaded the candidates and the crowd.

Governor Raul Mabanglo thanked all partners and leaders who helped make the event possible, particularly Monkayo Vice Mayor Manuel “Junjun” Brillantes Jr. for contributing precious metals such as gold and silver to the awards—further highlighting Davao de Oro’s identity as the “Golden Province.”

Congresswoman Maricar Zamora-Mabanglo and Congressman Jhong Ceniza also expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support of the public for the province’s events and programs, noting that such participation strengthens their commitment to serve the people of Davao de Oro.//

Photos by BINHI