This year’s Kadayawan Festival carries the theme “A Festival Rooted in Culture and Abundance”, highlighting not just Davao’s rich cultural heritage but also the natural bounty and diversity of its people. It’s a celebration that goes beyond street dances and floral floats. At its core, Kadayawan honors the traditions, values, and unity that have long shaped the city and its communities.
The city officially launched the Kadayawan 2025 festivities during a media briefing through the iSpeak Forum, led by local officials and event organizers. The discussion covered a wide range of updates, including the full lineup of events, safety measures, tourism efforts, and private sector support. Both local and national campaigns have been rolled out to drive awareness and invite participation from all over the country and even abroad.
For security, around 14,000 personnel will be deployed throughout the month-long celebration. The city is taking precautions seriously—backpacks will not be allowed in major events, along with hats, jackets, pointed umbrellas, and non-transparent water bottles. The safety team assures the public that while security will be tight, measures will be focused on ensuring an enjoyable and worry-free celebration for everyone.
Mayor’s office also confirmed that August 15 will be declared an official holiday in line with the Kadayawan celebration. This gives more locals and tourists the opportunity to fully take part in the festivities.
This year’s key events include:
Hiyas sa Kadayawan – A pageant that honors the intelligence, beauty, and cultural pride of young women from Davao’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.
Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan – Street dance competition that showcases vibrant movements, tribal beats, and storytelling through choreography.
Pamulak sa Kadayawan – Floral float parade that brings together creativity and local blooms in colorful procession.
Agong ug Kulintangan – A new addition this year. It’s a musical performance that puts a spotlight on traditional gong music played by indigenous communities, adding rhythm and depth to the celebration.
Other must-see activities include:
Dula Kadayawan, a showcase of indigenous games that reflect strength, skill, and sportsmanship.
Tribal Village and Cultural Performances at Magsaysay Park, which serves as a cultural hub where people can experience firsthand the daily life, food, art, and music of Davao’s tribes.
With an expanded campaign both locally and internationally, the City Tourism Office is anticipating a 50% increase in tourist arrivals, aiming to surpass last year’s 200,000 visitors. These expectations are backed by the festival’s growing reach and consistent support from the private sector.
Kadayawan 2025 is also receiving a bigger budget. The city has allocated 60 million pesos, which is 7 million more than the previous year. In addition, another 14 million worth of cash and in-kind sponsorships have been pledged by private businesses and partners who continue to support the city’s biggest annual event.
The launch was also attended by the 11 Deputy Mayors representing Davao’s diverse indigenous and Moro communities:
- Roel Arthur A. Ali Jr. – Ata
- Erwin B. Adolfo – Bagobo Klata
- Sheirelle U. Anino – Bagobo Tagabawa
- Pamikiren Latip P. Arumpac Jr. Al-Hadj – Bangsa Iranun
- Michael B. Mohamad – Bangsa Kagan
- Gabriel F. Nakan – Bangsa Maguindanaon
- Rahima M. Usman-Polao – Bangsa Maranao
- Carlito A. Guinto Jr. – Matigsalug
- Anthony L. Duyan – Obu Manuvu
- Estrellita Tanjili Mahamud – Bangsa Sama
- Edyamein T. Ahalul – Bangsa Tausug
As Davao once again opens its streets and hearts to the world, Kadayawan 2025 promises to be more than just a festival. It’s a tribute to the land, the people, and the spirit that continues to grow stronger with every year.
