DABAWENYOS have taken to the streets, parks, and cultural villages, each celebrating Kadayawan in their own way as the city bursts into a festival of colors, music, and tradition. For some, it’s a chance to explore Davao’s vibrant neighborhoods; for others, an opportunity to dive deep into the stories, dances, and heritage of the city’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.
For 24-year-old CJ Mercado of the Bagobo-Klata tribe, Kadayawan is a moment to showcase the culture and traditions of the city’s indigenous communities. She described the festival as a celebration of the roots of every Dabawenyo and a window into what the city has to offer both local and international visitors.
"This is one of the things that would enhance Davao City then, as a person, this is an avenue for people, not only us but also tourists, to enjoy," she said in an interview with SunStar Davao on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Kadayawan Village in Magsaysay Park.
Meanwhile, Sheirelle Anino of the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe said that Kadayawan matters not only to Indigenous Peoples (IPs) but also to Bisaya and other non-IP residents of Davao. She noted that the festival highlights the city’s bountiful harvest as well as the culture and traditions of its tribes.
Sheirelle added that August is especially meaningful for the tribes, giving them a chance to honor and preserve their heritage while expressing gratitude for the harvest.
"Every tuig kailangan natu i-celebrar kay para dili makalimtan ang atoang kultura at tradisyon not only kultura at tradisyon mao nay ingon naku unsa pod ang kagwapo pod Davao, unsa ang kaayo sa mga tao diri, mao mana ang imporante
(Every year we need to celebrate so we don’t forget our culture and traditions—not just culture and traditions, but also the beauty of Davao, the goodness of its people. That’s what’s important)," she said.
Seventeen-year-old Sidimar Jimhar, a youth from the Sama tribe, noted that Kadayawan is more than just cultural dances—it’s about presenting their tribe on a bigger stage. He underscored the importance of young people learning about their heritage.
Earlier, Jimhar performed the traditional Pangalay dance, which he has practiced since childhood. He explained that the dance symbolizes the strength and pride of the men in his tribe.
Monica Althea B. Encarnacion, a Bachelor of Secondary Education student at Assumption College of Davao, shared that she celebrates Kadayawan as a way to honor and preserve Dabawenyo cultural heritage for future generations.
"Kadayawan means the purity of our intention as Filipinos, and of course, it also serves as a key inspiration for me as a Dabawenya to celebrate what we have here in Davao," she said.
From young to old, each Dabawenyo celebrates Kadayawan in their way. While their approaches may differ, they all shine a light on the city’s rich culture and traditions. RGP