AN IMPROVED and modern Museo Dabawenyo is expected to rise in the heart of Davao City in 2019 at the People's Park.
The current Museo Dabawenyo is located on Andres Bonifacio Rotunda, in what was once the Court of First Instance that was renovated in 2008.
The Museo houses the history and artifacts of Davao's distinguished Indigenous People, the Davao City History or how it became a charter city, the Hall of Fame for "Datu Bago" awardees, the highest honor the city gives to its citizens; the gallery of the Undivided Davao History or Nanay Soling Duterte Hall; and different art works of local artists.
But with the city growing fast, there is no longer enough space to showcase what the city is all about.
Museo Dabawenyo Head Orly Escarilla, in an interview, said the current Museo Dabawenyo has to be transferred since the present location is situated along busy street. As traffic situation along Magallanes street gets congested most of the time, it discouraged many from visiting.
Thus, he said the transfer of the museum has to be in a place where many people come and has a bigger space to house increasing historical materials.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio approved the transfer of Museo Dabawenyo last June after a study done by the city government.
Councilor Pilar Braga announced the mayor's decision last June and added that the mayor also has approved the building design.
Escarilla said being at the People's Park is best as it allows more foot traffic and it's still right in the middle of the city.
He said the design, handled by the City Architect's Office, will be a five-storey durian-inspired dome in a 1,000 square meter lot inside the park.
A budget of P100-million has been allotted, sourced from the national funds given by President Rodrigo Duterte. The construction will start later this year.
Escarilla said there is a need for bigger space for storage as the museum has a number of artifacts and other materials.
Although the exterior design of the new Museo Dabawenyo is already done, the interior is still being finalized.
He said that the second and third levels will be an exhibit area, housing the artifacts and other displays of the museum. While fourth floor will house the administrative office, a small library, and several conference rooms.
Dabawenyos will surely be thrilled to visit the new Museo Dabawenyo and learn the history of why life is here in Davao City.