Eleven candidates from the 11 ethnolinguistic groups of the city were presented to the media at the Acacia Hotel on Wednesday.
The City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) introduced the representatives from the Lumad people as Niña Mieu Lausan of the Ata, Kristine Claire Tar of the Bagobo-Klata, Edmary Quinto of the Bagobo-Tagabawa, Angelie Benito of the Matigsalug, and Princess Ericka Pagayao of the Obu-Manuvu.
Meanwhile, the candidates of the Moro groups are Iranun’s Johara Buissan, Maguindanaon’s Ruhaina Utto, the Maranao’s Juhanah Sultan, the Sama people’s Hessa Sailabi, and the Taosug’s Althea Asnawi.
The ladies will be competing for the title of Hiyas sa Kadayawan 2023.
During Wednesday’s media presentation, the candidates expressed their desire to showcase the unique talents and colorful traditions of their people through the competition.
The candidates also agreed on the common goal of preserving traditional art and craftsmanship through education and by passing on age-old traditions to younger generations.
As cultural ambassadors of Davao City, the candidates are to be assessed by their talents, wit, bearing, and their ability to connect with all the other indigenous groups, as the winning Hiyas must embody unity and the celebration of cultural diversity.
CTOO Head Jennifer Romero said the ladies not only represent the vibrant traditions of the city but also “serves as a reminder of the importance of women in nurturing and preserving” the cityâs heritage.
âWomen have been the unsung heroes of our traditions- passing down stories, weaving the threads of our history, and upholding the values that make us who we are,â Romero added.
The candidates are set to showcase their talents at the Hiyas sa Kadayawan Cultural Presentation on August 13 at the SM City Davao Annex Building. The coronation night is slated on August 17 at the RMC Petro Gazz Arena. CIO
