CATBALOGAN CITY — Twenty candidates representing municipalities and cities across Samar were officially introduced during the launch of the Mutya han Samar 2026 pageant, kicking off one of the major highlights of this year’s Tandaya Festival.
The candidates were formally presented and sash-worn during ceremonies held on July 26 at the Samar Convention Center, this city.
Carrying the theme, “Rooted in Samar. Crowned by Culture. Going Back to the Roots,” this year’s pageant seeks to showcase the province’s rich cultural heritage, promote its tourism destinations, and develop young Samareñas as ambassadors of their respective localities.
The official candidates represent Almagro, Basey, Calbayog City, Catbalogan City, Gandara, Hinabangan, Jiabong, Marabut, Matuguinao, Motiong, Pagsanghan, Paranas, Pinabacdao, San Jorge, San Jose de Buan, Sta. Margarita, Sta. Rita, Talalora, Tarangnan, and Villareal.
The ceremonial sashing was led by reigning Mutya han Samar 2025 Kyrus Babon, Samar Vice Governor Arnold Tan, and Provincial Tourism Officer Marvin Piczon.
Organizers said the pageant encourages contestants to reconnect with the traditions, history, and values of their hometowns while promoting Samar’s identity and cultural pride.
Mutya han Samar is the province’s premier beauty pageant and serves as a platform for young women to champion Samar’s heritage and tourism. Pre-pageant activities will be held in Pinabacdao, while the coronation night is scheduled on Aug. 9 at the Capitol Grounds in Catbalogan City as part of the Tandaya Festival celebration.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
