A Celebration of Beauty, Culture, and Empowerment
Cotabato City – June 19, 2025
The much-awaited Mutya ng Kutawato 2025 Coronation Night lit up the Cotabato State University Gymnasium with a dazzling display of grace, talent, and cultural pride. It was more than a pageant—it was a powerful celebration of Cotabateña identity and the strength of empowered women in the Bangsamoro region.
From the very beginning of the competition, Ms. Aleanna Jay R. Zabate emerged as a strong contender—winning hearts with her poise, sincerity, and powerful presence. On coronation night, she was officially crowned Mutya ng Kutawato 2025, earning thunderous applause from the audience and admiration from the judges.
In her defining moment during the Q&A segment, Aleanna delivered a moving response when asked about pageantry in the context of Bangsamoro cultural and religious values. She emphasized that true pageantry uplifts women, encourages kindness, and celebrates character—not just appearance.
Catriona:
In a region like Bangsamoro, where cultural and religious values are deeply rooted and modesty is highly regarded, what would you say to those who believe beauty pageants degrade the dignity and identity of the Bangsamoro woman?
Aleanna:
Good evening. I believe pageantry is a platform where women can express empowerment, kindness, and authenticity. True pageantry allows us to be ourselves—compassionate, respectful, and grounded in our values, including faith.
Being religious goes hand-in-hand with being kind, being humble, and treating others with respect. As long as we uplift others and do not harm anyone in the process, I see no conflict.
To me, pageantry doesn’t just define us by appearances, but reveals who we are through our character. And I truly believe—True Queens don’t just shine, they guide others forward.
Thank you.
