Enchanted by Davao’s Kadayawan

August 22 (&23), 2011

The Philippines with its 7,107 islands is second only to Indonesia in terms of the most islands. Being a former colony of Spain, they say we are more Latinos than Asians in the sense that we’re very passionate and emotional. We have many festivals for various reasons (religion, good harvest, just because. hehe) because of that influence.

I wasn’t really into it coz I don’t like crowds. But a friend, Ed, invited me to join him on a trip. He booked a flight for us along with other travel buddies with the intention of attending the local fest, Kadayawan.

Kadayawan Festival is held annually, every 3rd week of August, in Davao to celebrate the good and bountiful harvest of the people. The different ethnic tribes (there’s about 10 of them) around the foot of Mt. Apo, highest peak in the country, would converge to give thanks to the gods, particularly to the “Manama” also known as the Supreme Being. The term Kadayawan came from the Mandaya word “madayaw” which is a warm and friendly greeting that means good, valuable, superior or beautiful.

I liked that it was very colorful since the various tribes were all fitted in brightly coloured and intricately designed traditional costumes. Though amongst the people I was with were apt to compare it to Cebu’s Sinulog, the hand’s down biggest festival in the country. I told them to not compare the two (if possible) and to just enjoy this festival. By the way, they got me excited to go to Cebu so I already booked a flight for that one! :D

I had a wonderful time in Davao’s Kadayawan Festival!

Here are some pictures I took. :)