EVERY Kadayawan season, Magsaysay Park’s Kadayawan Cultural Village turns into a vibrant hub of discovery. Established in 2017 by the Davao City government, it offers visitors a rare chance to step inside the homes, crafts, and daily life of the city’s 11 recognized tribes. From traditional clothing to musical instruments and interactive activities, it’s a place where culture can be seen, heard, and touched.
The Kadayawan Festival is a celebration of Davao’s diversity and the artistry of its indigenous peoples. Inside the Cultural Village, each exhibit becomes a doorway to stories that blend identity, creativity, and history.
A pair of bells
At the ATA tribe’s exhibit, my eyes landed on a delicate pair of earrings. Bae Neneng explained that the bell-shaped design symbolizes how the tribe gathers its people for celebrations and communal events. Each pair, priced at ₱150, carries a piece of their identity, while other designs—featuring flowers and corn—pay homage to elements vital to their culture.
Strings for the soul
A few steps away, the Matigsalug tribe introduced me to the “Sulerey,” a six-string bamboo instrument they call their version of a guitar. “Mao ni siya ang instrument nga ang babae lang dapat ang mo gamit, pina-agi aning instrument mapagawas nato ang emotion nga naa sa atoa (This instrument is meant to be played only by women. And through it, we can express the emotions we carry within),” said Laha Angelie. This is an instrument not just for music, but for feelings that words can’t capture.
Dancing into battle
For visitors seeking an immersive experience, the Maguindanaon exhibit offers the opportunity to wear the colorful “Sagayan” war dance attire, complete with kampilan (sword) and kalasag (shield). “Before a battle, warriors danced to build bravery and readiness,” explained Deputy Mayor Gabriel Nakan. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, attendees may join the performance and engage with the tradition firsthand.
Karl Bryan Porras/SunStar PhotoPride of Bangsa Iranun
The Bangsa Iranun tribe proudly displayed their “Inaul Malongs”—intricately handwoven tube garments. “The Inaul is our pride. It’s what we give as a special gift because it symbolizes who we are,” said Deputy Mayor Pamikiren Arumpac. Priced from ₱1,800 to ₱2,800, these malongs are both cultural heirlooms and a livelihood for many Iranun weavers.
Festive curtains
Finally, the Maranao exhibit dazzled with “Mamandiang,” intricately designed fabrics used as home curtains during weddings, celebrations, and the enthronement of tribal leaders. Hosniah Diangka shared how each piece is made, giving visitors a front-row seat to the craftsmanship behind every vibrant thread.
From fashion to music to hands-on activities, the Kadayawan Cultural Village is a living museum—where every object tells a story, and every encounter bridges past and present. It’s a reminder that Davao’s culture isn’t just preserved—it’s alive, evolving, and ready to be shared with anyone willing to see, feel, and take part in its colorful heartbeat. KBP