CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — With the coronation just weeks away, residents will soon find out who will wear the Miss Cagayan de Oro 2026 crown after 12 candidates impressed judges during the pageant's preliminary competition on Saturday, Aug. 1. 

Representing Barangays Tablon, Cugman, Lapasan, Barangay 17, Barangay 31, Barangay 40, Carmen, Iponan, Kauswagan, Macasandig, Nazareth and Patag, the candidates showcased confidence and elegance in the swimsuit and long gown competitions—giving Kagay-anons a preview of what to expect on coronation night. 

Acting City Tourism Officer Mark Kenneth Jalapadan, one of the preliminary judges, described this year's lineup as the beginning of a "new era" for the city's longest-running beauty pageant. 

"As we celebrate the 61st Miss Cagayan de Oro, people can expect something new during the coronation night. This is a new era of Miss Cagayan de Oro, something to look forward to.

Atangan na lang ninyo," Jalapadan said. 

Among the contestants, Kriezl Jane Vitorillo of Barangay Tablon stood out after receiving the most corporate awards during the preliminary competition, making her one of the early favorites heading into the finals. 

Despite the recognition, Vitorillo said her focus remains on preparing mentally, physically and spiritually for the crowning night. 

"We do pasarela training and question-and-answer preparation. Spiritually, we always offer our performances to God and to our devotee, Señor Santo Niño," she said. 

Pageant chairperson and City Councilor Gilda "Gigi" Go said the quality of this year's candidates continues to improve, raising expectations for the competition. She added that the final judging panel will include a beauty queen alongside local judges. 

Go also encouraged residents and visitors to support the city's biggest annual celebration.

"I hope nga kita tanan motan-aw sa tanang kalihokan sa Higalaay Festival," she said. 

The Miss Cagayan de Oro 2026 Coronation Night is set for Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. at the Limketkai Atrium and is among the major attractions of this year's Higalaay Festival, alongside the street dancing competition and other cultural events. 

For pageant fans, the finals promise more than just the selection of the city's next queen—it will also showcase the talent, confidence and community spirit of young women representing barangays across Cagayan de Oro.