KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – Celebrating more than beauty and pageantry, T’nalak Queen 2026 became a platform for promoting inclusivity, self-expression, and empowerment as the LGBTQIA+ community took center stage during the celebration of the 60th Foundation Anniversary of South Cotabato and the 27th T’nalak Festival.
The annual pageant featured 17 candidates representing various municipalities, organizations, and sectors across the province, showcasing not only beauty, grace, and confidence but also leadership, advocacy, resilience, and the meaningful contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community to South Cotabato’s social and cultural development.
According to Francisco Cerbo Jr., Tourism Officer I and Committee Chair of T’nalak Queen 2026, the pageant continues to provide an avenue where members of the LGBTQIA+ community can confidently showcase their talents and advocacies while celebrating diversity.
“Ang T’nalak Festival nagahatag gid sang official space para sa members sang LGBTQ+ community. Ini isa ka patimaan nga ang South Cotabato padayon nga nagarespeto, nagapalangga, kag handa nga mag-embrace sang sini nga komunidad.”
Cerbo said the event reflects the provincial government’s commitment to recognizing the LGBTQIA+ community as an integral part of South Cotabato’s vibrant culture and inclusive development.
Emerging victorious was Maria Antonia “Tonia” Faeldonia Labiang of the SK Federation–City of Koronadal, who was crowned T’nalak Queen 2026 after impressing the judges with her poise, intelligence, and stage presence.
Her victory marked a celebration of leadership, authenticity, and empowerment, embodying the pageant’s advocacy of inclusivity and diversity.
Completing the royal court were Mahal Medilo of the City of Koronadal as 1st Runner-Up, Pauline John Gil of Seawave Fitness Hub as 2nd Runner-Up, Ma. Michaela Francine Ravena of the Municipality of Banga as 3rd Runner-Up, and Junica Manansala of PNP Tupi as 4th Runner-Up.
Earlier in the competition, Mahal Medilo received the Best in Production Number and Best in Interview awards, while Pauline John Gil earned Best in Swimwear and Best in Evening Gown honors.
A major supporter of the event, Engr. Orlando Batallones, highlighted the importance of self-acceptance and resilience in his message to the candidates and the LGBTQIA+ community.
“Always remember, at the end of the day, try to love yourself more, try to love yourself more.”
Batallones encouraged members of the community to remain proud of who they are and to continue pursuing their aspirations despite challenges, emphasizing that self-love is the foundation of confidence and genuine empowerment.
As one of the banner events of this year’s T’nalak Festival, T’nalak Queen 2026 reaffirmed South Cotabato’s commitment to fostering inclusive spaces where diversity is celebrated, talents are recognized, and every South Cotabateño is empowered to contribute to the province’s continuing journey toward progress, unity, and social inclusion.
