THE pandemic left nothing to function as normal as before. All the things that we used to do and enjoy have changed, no matter how simple and complex they may be. Our social interactions and gatherings have been reduced to simpler and virtual versions.
This August, we find ourselves in a unique situation: How do we celebrate Kadayawan Festival when we are advised to stay at home and observe physical distancing? While the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) was able to organize Kadayawan Digital Week filled with interesting online competitions, there are still a few things we miss about the Kadayawan we used to know:
1. Fruits, fruits everywhere
Covid-19 does not stop the fruit trees from bearing Kadayawan favorites such as durian, mangosteen, marang and rambutan. However, what we miss about them is seeing sidewalk fruit vendors almost in every part of the city. Now, with the health restrictions this pandemic, we might only see them in the market, designated fruit stands, and in particular portions of the city.
2. Colorful parades
When we talk of fiestas here in the Philippines, one of the first things that come to mind is the colorful outfits of dancers and street performers during the parade. Kadayawan in Davao City is that and more. With the festival as a celebration of thanksgiving and the unity of Lumad, Christians, and Muslims, it is also a showcase of the people’s culture and tradition. These are shown in lively dances, performances, and activities. C.M. Recto Avenue is often filled with smiling children and entertained Dabawenyos and tourists. It’s such a fun sight!
3. 3D Mapping display at City Hall
At the end of the day, after all the fruit-eating and sale-shopping we did, every Kadayawan we would like to sit by the park near the City Hall and watch the 3D mapping display. Since a few years ago, the show would display different icons of the city like eagles, durian, waling-waling – much to the joy and amazement of little kids. Adults who also sit and rest by the park also find this very relaxing. Just a few meters are popcorn, balot, and ice cream vendors as well as massage therapists.
4. Interacting with our Lumad brothers and sisters
It was instilled in the minds of every Dabawenyo that Kadayawan Festival is a celebration of thanksgiving and the unity of Lumad, Christians, and Muslims living in the city. Therefore, activities of the festival pay respect and homage to these groups. One of the most iconic destinations in Magsaysay Park during the festival is the Kadayawan Village where 11 kubos, each for the tribes in the city, were built. Tourists and Dabawenyos alike may visit these kubos and get to know the culture of every tribe present. There are also local delicacies that anyone can taste. It is important because, for every festival celebrated around the country, the humble beginnings of the celebration should not be shoved aside and forgotten.
5. Smiles and laughter
Since the health emergency had been declared, people were asked to wear face masks at all times when outside their houses. Because of this, rarely do we our friends smile and laugh in person. We hear and see them through the gadget’s lens but it’s totally different in person. We can only hope and pray that this pandemic ends soon so we can hang out with friends and other members of the family again.
This Kadayawan Festival may be different from the previous ones we’ve been celebrating but, perhaps as long as we know the very reason why we’re celebrating in the first place, Kadayawan will always be in our hearts.