Davao City officially launches month-long Kadayawan fete

Inaki Modrix Arejola

Diverse colors and traditions came to life at Ramon Magsaysay Park, Davao City, as Pag-abli sa Kadayawan 2026 took place on Aug. 7, with the theme “We Are One, KadayaONE”, marking the grand opening of the much-anticipated Kadayawan Festival.

Vice President Sara Duterte welcomed the event, saying that the festival reflects not only unity but also the strength and resilience of Davaoeños amid the economic and political issues.

“These struggles did not define us, they made us stronger. We will continue to rise, support one another, and move forward with courage, wisdom, and fate. We will remain unbowed.” said the Vice President.

Following her message, Duterte, together with the 11 Tribal deputy mayors, unveiled the Banig sa Kagikan, which symbolizes the interwoven patterns, cultures, and unity of the 11 ethnolinguistic tribes that reside in the city.

As the event unfolds, tourists and locals fill the venue as it features various programs, including tribal dances and a live 3D mapping show projected onto the City Hall. 

Earlier that day, a boat parade called Subang Sinugdanan ug Panagtagbo was held on the Davao River to remember how various ethnolinguistic tribes flourished and helped in shaping the city`s unique cultural identity.

Further activities are set to be held during the month-long celebration, including the Hiyas sa Kadayawan on Aug. 13, and Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan on Aug. 16. 

The festival is celebrated annually as a mark of gratitude towards nature’s gift, bountiful harvests, and the cultural heritage of the tribes in Davao.

The local government organized 26 official activities throughout the whole festival, which is more than the previous year.