Ten inspiring women from different barangays of Conner, Apayao vied for the title of 2025 Community-Driven Development (CDD) Ambassador in a pageant held on 7 August 2025.

The event formed part of the 2nd Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) celebration in the municipality. This year marked the first time a pageant was staged, blending grace, wit, and advocacy to highlight the invaluable role of community volunteers in local development. Representing a diverse range of community leaders, from barangay officials to volunteers, the contestants showcased not only their charm and stage presence, but
also their dedication to uplifting their communities through the CDD approach.

Teresa Z. Nueva, a community volunteer from Barangay Buluan, emerged as the 2025 CDD Ambassador during the pageant. She earned the title for her exemplary dedication, leadership, and active involvement in advancing the program’s goals. Joining her on
stage were 1st Runner-Up Martina Batugon, Kagawad of Barangay Calafug, and 2nd Runner-Up Emilyn Ruth Imaysay, Chair of the Bids and Awards Committee Technical Working Group of Barangay Banban. Special awards were also presented to recognize
outstanding performances: Best in Native Attire was awarded to Martina Batugon; Best in Indigenous Attire to Teresa Z. Nueva; Best in Talent to Gemalyn Molina-Capit, Bookkeeper of Barangay Ili; and Best in Question and Answer to Rosavilla Basingan,
Audit and Inventory Team Head of Barangay Paddaoan.

The CDD Ambassador Pageant served as a platform for volunteers to share their experiences and advocacies, celebrating how the CDD approach empowers communities to identify and address their own development priorities. #DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Yvonne Gracious T. Elegado, Social Marketing Officer III