KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Province of South Cotabato crowned Challcy Karyl Cordeta Indico of the Municipality of Polomolok as Mutya ng South Cotabato 2026, capping an evening that celebrated not only beauty and talent but also the province’s enduring values of unity, cultural pride, and empowered leadership during the 27th T’nalak Festival and 60th Foundation Anniversary of the Province of South Cotabato.
Delivering a heartfelt response, newly crowned Mutya ng South Cotabato 2026 Challcy Karyl Cordeta Indico described the province as a place where every sector contributes to a shared dream of progress.
“We see our farmers that cultivate harvests, our labor force that strengthens our industrialization, and our weavers that contribute to our cultural identity. The Land of the Dreamweavers is indeed true because ang gandang mangarap here in South Cotabato, and it can be applied to the rest of the Philippines where the world can learn from.”
Her response earned resounding applause from the audience and reflected the values that have long defined South Cotabato as a province that celebrates diversity while pursuing inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Joining Indico in the winners’ circle were Crinice Jean Daluz of the Municipality of Tantangan, who was proclaimed First Runner-up, and Fredelma Nova Tenasas Corporal of Bautista Cosmetic and General Surgery, who earned the title of Second Runner-up. They received cash prizes, gift certificates, gift checks, and sponsor incentives in recognition of their outstanding performances throughout the competition.
In her welcome message, Honorary Chairperson Hon. Alicia Nicole Causing-Labordo emphasized that the pageant is ultimately about the journeys of the young women who chose to represent their respective communities with honor and purpose.
“Tonight, as we witness the crowning of our next Mutya, let us remember that this evening is not defined by a single moment or a single title. It is defined by the stories of young women who dared to step forward, represent their communities, and inspire others to do the same.”
She also noted that as South Cotabato marks six decades of progress, the pageant reflects the province’s continued growth through the unity, dedication, and aspirations of its people.
Meanwhile, Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. commended all sixteen candidates, emphasizing that every participant had already become a winner by proudly showcasing the province’s culture, traditions, and limitless potential.
“Bilang Gobernador, talagang nakakaproud makita ang kultura at tradisyon sa galing ng ating mga Mutya. Sa ating mga supporters at sa lahat ng kandidata, gusto kong sabihin na panalo na silang lahat dahil ipinakita nila ang iba’t ibang potensyal at husay ng ating lalawigan. Sana’y patuloy nating suportahan ang selebrasyon ng T’nalak Festival at sama-sama nating ipagmalaki ang South Cotabato.”
The Governor likewise encouraged residents and visitors to continue participating in the remaining festival activities, emphasizing that the T’nalak Festival serves as an opportunity to showcase the province’s tourism, creative industries, local products, and the harmonious relationship among its diverse communities.
One of the most anticipated portions of the evening was the Final Interview, where the Top 3 finalists answered a question on what the rest of the Philippines could learn from South Cotabato’s people-centered governance and its ability to unite diverse cultures through the “Tama at Maayos na Serbisyo” brand of leadership.
The pageant also honored outstanding performances through its special and minor awards. Sandy May Geanga Fantilaga of the Municipality of Tupi dominated the minor awards after winning Best in Her Story Video, Best in Production Number, Best in Swimsuit, and Best in Evening Gown. Sofia Jean L. Tapel of the Municipality of Sto. Niño received Best in T’nalak Festival Couture, while Fredelma Nova Tenasas Corporal earned Best in Closed-Door Interview. Other special recognitions included Miss Photogenic, Miss Telegenic, Miss Congeniality, Miss Green Cross Daily Care, and Best Designer Award.
Official Winners
Mutya ng South Cotabato 2026
- Challcy Karyl Cordeta Indico – Municipality of Polomolok
First Runner-up
- Crinice Jean Daluz – Municipality of Tantangan
Second Runner-up
- Fredelma Nova Tenasas Corporal – Bautista Cosmetic and General Surgery
Held before thousands of spectators, the Grand Coronation Night gathered sixteen exceptional candidates representing municipalities, national government agencies, and organizations from across the province. Throughout weeks of activities, the candidates underwent various challenges that highlighted their intelligence, character, community involvement, and appreciation of South Cotabato’s diverse cultural heritage.
More than a beauty pageant, Mutya ng South Cotabato has evolved into a platform that develops women leaders and cultural ambassadors capable of representing the province beyond the festival stage. This year’s competition reflected the Provincial Government’s continuing commitment to promoting women empowerment, preserving cultural identity, and strengthening unity among its Christian, Muslim, and Indigenous communities.
As one of the flagship events of the 27th T’nalak Festival, Mutya ng South Cotabato continues to go beyond the traditional concept of a beauty competition. It has become a meaningful platform where young women champion culture, volunteerism, leadership, and public service while proudly carrying the identity of South Cotabato as the Land of the Dreamweavers.
