DAVAO — The Mutya ng Pilipinas 2026 official candidates have arrived in Davao, immersing themselves in the region's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking island beauty. Their three-day journey through the heart of Mindanao promises to showcase the warmth and diversity that define this vibrant destination.
A Grand Island Welcome at Pearl Farm
The candidates arrived at the stunning Pearl Farm Beach Resort on the Island Garden City of Samal, where they received a truly grand island welcome. The resort's staff enveloped them in the warmth of Filipino hospitality, making them feel at home from the moment they stepped onto the island.
Three days in paradise now begin for the delegates, who will experience the resort's pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and world-class amenities. The visit highlights Samal's growing reputation as a premier luxury destination in the Philippines, attracting both local and international travelers.
Discovering Davao's Cultural Tapestry
On October 7, 2026, the candidates visited the Kadayawan Village at Magsaysay Park, where Davao's rich cultural heritage lives beyond the festivities. The village brings together the traditional houses, stories, crafts, and traditions of Davao City's 11 ethnolinguistic groups.
Community representatives guided the candidates through the village, helping them understand the heritage each group carries. The site continues to welcome visitors year-round as a space for cultural learning and appreciation, offering tourists a deeper connection to Mindanao's indigenous roots.
For the hometown girls, the visit was a meaningful opportunity to experience Davao not only as a destination but through the people, traditions, and stories that have shaped its identity. Their journey reflects the pageant's broader mission of celebrating cultural diversity and fostering national pride.
Online Voting Leaderboards Heat Up
As of October 7, the competition's online voting challenges are intensifying. In the Mutya La Elegante Filipina category, Marinell Salvador leads with 4,430 votes, followed by Yuki Mae Tamar at 4,180 and Ciely Ann Ycoy at 2,700.
In the Heart of Mutya challenge, Claire Cacal commands the top spot with 1,010 votes. Ciely Ann Ycoy follows with 610, while Gwen Cledera holds third place with 550. These are two separate challenges with distinct leaderboards.
All votes continue to add to each candidate's accumulated online voting total, with no reset. Supporters are encouraged to vote for their hometown favorites before the deadline on October 11, 2026.
How to Support Your Candidate
Fans can cast their votes by visiting the official voting portal and selecting Challenge 2 or Challenge 3. After choosing their preferred candidate, voters select a vote package, complete payment, and submit their vote. The process is straightforward and accessible to supporters worldwide.
The voting platform is powered by Sysprotech IT Solutions, ensuring a secure and transparent experience. Every vote counts toward the candidates' overall standing and contributes to their journey toward the crown.
