In the heart of Davao City’s vibrant and evolving nightlife, a new name is starting to earn his place behind the decks. At just 23 years old, Derickdale P. Castillo, better known as DJ Dale, is emerging as one of the city’s most promising new DJs, building his presence one beat at a time.
Based in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, Derrickdale regularly travels to the city to perform, connect, and grow within Davao’s expanding music scene.
“Even though I’m from Tibal-og, I always saw Davao as the place where I could really pursue this passion,” he said.
And pursue it he did.
His journey officially began just eight months ago, in October 2024, when he finally bought his first DJ controller.
“I studied on my own for a month, just learning the basics like mixing and beatmatching,” he shared. “Eventually, I met a mentor who helped me improve. That really made a difference.”
The idea of becoming a DJ wasn’t new. It began years earlier, sparked by a powerful moment on the dancefloor.
“What motivated me to begin DJing was my first experience at a club around eight years ago,” he shared. “Witnessing the DJ influence the atmosphere of the entire room was the most amazing thing I had ever seen. I promised myself, ‘Someday, I want to be that person.’”
Back in high school, he played in a band with classmates. DJing came later, after realizing how expensive the gear could be.
“At first, I didn’t take it seriously because of the cost. But when I finally had the chance to buy my own setup, I knew I had to give it a try.”
What started as a bedroom practice has since grown into something much bigger.
His first break came at Bae Bistro Davao, a city bar that gave him his first real shot behind the booth.
“It was a Wednesday night, but the crowd felt like a weekend,” he recalled. “That gig made me believe I could actually pursue this.”
Soon after, he landed a spot at Sarbay 2025, one of Mindanao’s biggest summer festivals. “I had doubts. I almost canceled. I felt unprepared,” he said. “But I went through with it, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made so far.”
Though still early in his career, Derickdale has already observed how Davao’s nightlife is shifting and how local creatives are finding ways to thrive.
"Despite the liquor ban being in place until 1 a.m., partygoers have found new ways to keep the energy alive, such as hosting raves in coffee shops, having events in boiler rooms, and throwing house parties that can last as long as they want," he said. “Even new genres like baile funk and underground music are starting to find a home in Davao.”
He sees himself growing alongside the scene, with a personal style rooted in commercial EDM, Top 40, Hip-Hop/RnB, and Afro beats.
“I’m still working on my sound, but those are the genres I feel most confident in,” he said. “I want to be part of the movement that shapes Davao’s sound and energy, whether that’s in bars, clubs, or full-on festivals.”
As he continues to learn and perform, Derrickdale is clear about what matters most to him is staying grounded.
“Focus on building connections and embracing qualities that can’t be taught, like kindness, humility, and respect. Sure, being great at mixing songs is important, but ultimately, it’s your attitude that truly sets you apart. Just be yourself, and you’ll do great,” he said.
While a few out-of-town shows are being planned, he’s careful not to make announcements until things are confirmed. “I’ll post on my socials once the dates are locked in,” he said.
One thing he never forgets is to acknowledge the people who’ve helped him grow. “I want to thank my Bae Bistro family — Ma’am Van, Sir Pau, and Sir Red — and of course my mentor, DJ Rey Tan. You’ve all played a huge role in my journey. I appreciate you all more than I can say.”
From quiet nights practicing in Tibal-og to pulsing crowds in Davao’s bars and festivals, DJ Dale is part of a new wave of Dabawenyo talent shaping the city’s music scene — not just with sound, but with soul. KBP