Bisaya mom and nurse crowned Ginang Filipinas DMV America 2025

Radha Zabala (center)  is crowned Ginang Filipinas DMV America 2025. Photo from Radha Zabala/Facebook

Balancing motherhood, a demanding nursing career and the pursuit of personal dreams can be overwhelming, but for Radha Zabala, the newly crowned Ginang Filipinas DMV America 2025 and a proud Bisaya now living in the US, it’s a challenge she embraces with grace and determination.

A native of Lanao del Norte in Northern Mindanao, Zabala now carries the honor of representing Maryland in the upcoming national competition this December in Seattle.

The regional pageant, which honors married women and single mothers of Filipino descent, continues to redefine what it means to be a modern Filipina in America.

Now set to represent Maryland at the national competition in Seattle this December, Zabala’s triumph is more than just a personal victory.

“Being crowned Ginang Filipinas DMV America 2025 is beyond a dream come true – it’s a deeply emotional and humbling experience,” she shared with Inquirer.net USA. “I carry this crown not just for myself, but for every woman who has ever doubted her strength, her beauty or her worth.”

Her journey to the crown didn’t begin with gowns and glitter. It began in the quiet struggles of balancing motherhood, a career as a nurse and healing from the pain of divorce. 

“I joined this pageant not just for a crown, but to rediscover the woman within me—the woman who still dreams, still fights and still believes,” she said. What inspired her most was the chance to represent women like herself—strong, vulnerable and full of purpose.

For Zabala, Ginang Filipina is a calling. “As a Bisaya woman living in the United States, it’s a way of holding on to my roots while embracing the challenges of a new life abroad,” she said. 

Mental health advocacy is at the heart of her mission. As a nurse, a single mom and an immigrant, she understands how many women carry silent battles. 

“I want to be a voice that reminds women: it’s okay to seek help, to pause, and to prioritize your healing. You are not alone.”

Looking back, Zabala cherishes the sisterhood formed during the pageant. She was moved by the shared experiences and mutual empowerment among contestants.

“We’re not here to outshine one another – we’re here to shine together,” she said.