THE 88TH Araw ng Dabaw month-long celebration officially opened with Pasiugdang Pagsaulog on Saturday, March 1 at the Rizal Park.
Acting vice mayor, Councilor Alberto Ungab delivered the message of Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte who was a no-show in the opening.
In his message, Duterte said this year’s theme, which is “88 Years Strong: One Davao”, reflects the strength of the Dabawenyos, through its unity in diversity, resilience, determination, and compassion.
“Let us celebrate with pride and enthusiasm while upholding the culture of security and discipline that define us as Dabawenyos. Through our shared vigilance, responsibility, and commitment to peace, let us ensure a safe and meaningful celebration for all, together as one united Dabawenyo community,” he added.
Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, chairperson of the Committee on Tourism and Beautification, said the celebration is a testament to the 88 years of strength and unity.
“May this celebration remind us that as one Davao, we stand strong together, ready to move forward, towards a brighter future,” Alejandre added.
Pasiugdang Pagsaulog featured several performers including powerhouse vocals to world-class dance moves from the city’s talented artists who won big in local and international competitions.
This includes The Voice Teens Grand Champion and World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) multi-gold medalist Jona Soquite; Tawag ng Tanghalan Season 3 Grand finalist and WCOPA multi-medalist Rap Cañedo; Tawag ng Tanghalan Season 6 Grand finalist Ralph Angelo Merced, and multi-awarded UM Chorale.
D’squared Cru, who brought locally grown dance craze “budots” to the international stage, and Studio 51 also showcased their world-class dance moves.
The official song of this year’s edition of the city’s founding anniversary celebration was also launched during the opening along with the presentation of Top 20 candidates for Mutya ng Dabaw 2025.
One of the highlights of the event is the lighting up of the logo at Quezon Park fronting the City Hall.
This year’s festivities include the annual Hulagway sa Araw ng Dabaw, Araw ng Dabaw Fair in Magsaysay Park, RondalSayaw, Pasidungog: Garbo sa Dabaw, Konsierto Dabawenyo, Parada Dabawenyo, Hugyaw Dabaw and the Mutya ng Dabaw.
The City Tourism Operations Office will also hold a heritage walking tour in Bankerohan Public Market and a retelling of Davao History at People’s Park on March 6-8, and at San Pedro Street to the City Hall on March 13-15.
Exemplary Davaoeños will also be conferred in the Datu Bago Awards on March 7 at Royal Mandaya Hotel.
