Pre-colonial Davao bore witness to the thriving trading industry of its ethnolinguistic groups along coastal areas, major rivers, and traditional upland-lowland trade settlement along the Davao Gulf.
This year’s Kadayawan Festival 2026 brings back the Subang Sinugdanan, a reenactment of traditional barter traditions of the city’s 11 ethnolinguistic groups, symbolizing their peaceful convergence.
Every year prior to the pandemic, the city holds this major cultural event that features a spectacular boat parade of the 11 ethnolinguistic groups to officially kick-off the festivities that honors Davao’s rich history, vibrant cultural tapestry, and abundant harvest.
Willenito P. Tormis Jr., Head of the City Tourism Operations Office, in an interview with the City Information Office, said that following a brief hiatus during the pandemic and the years following that, their office sought to bring back the annual tradition during Kadayawan.
“Karon gusto nato ibalik ‘tong naandan ug gusto nato nga mas ma-appreciate pa sa generations karon kung unsa g’yud ni’ng Kadayawan (We want to revive that tradition, and we want the current generations to better appreciate what Kadayawan is truly all about),” he said.
He also highlighted the significance of the Subang Sinugdanan in Kadayawan, as this does not only honor traditions and cultural heritage but also reflects how peace and unity continues to thrive in the city amid its diverse cultures.
This year’s Subang Sinugdanan is set on August 7, and will feature one boat for the indigenous people’s group, and one boat for the Bangsa Moro. Tormis said that they plan to expand this in the coming years.
Dabawenyos are also invited to witness the event along with other activities scheduled for Kadayawan 2026 including the Pamulak sa Kadalanan and Indak-Indak on August 16. CIO
Written by: J. Villaluz
Edited by: A. Nawal