ARAW NG DAVAO REGION: THE FIRST DIVIDED DAVAO PROVINCE

Celebrating Heritage and Industry: Araw ng Davao and Regional Festivals Mark July 1st in the Davao Region

DAVAO REGION, PHILIPPINES — July 1, 2025 — The first day of July holds historical significance for the Davao Region as it commemorates Araw ng Davao — a momentous occasion marking the official division of the former, single Davao province into three distinct provinces: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental. Enacted through Republic Act No. 4867 in 1967, this landmark event reshaped the political, administrative, and cultural identity of southeastern Mindanao.

While Araw ng Davao originally referred to the division of the entire Davao province, each province now celebrates this history through its own distinct observance:

• Araw ng Davao del Norte (Davnor)

• Araw ng Davao del Sur (Davsul)

• Araw ng Davao Oriental (DavOr)

Each of these celebrations reflects the unique culture, achievements, and aspirations of the provinces, while still acknowledging their shared historical roots.

In Davao del Norte, the provincial capital of Tagum City leads the celebration with the Banana Philippine Festival, paying tribute to the region’s robust banana industry — a major driver of both local livelihood and export revenue. The festivities include street dancing competitions featuring performers in colorful banana-themed costumes, as well as an agricultural trade fair showcasing banana products and innovations in agri-business.

In Davao del Sur, the celebration is marked by vibrant community events that include street parades, cultural showcases, and traditional dances. Often paired with the local Ani Festival, which gives thanks for bountiful harvests, the province emphasizes its agricultural identity and deep cultural traditions rooted in indigenous and migrant communities.

Meanwhile, Davao Oriental marks the day with programs that highlight its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. While its major cultural festival — the Sambuokan Festival — is held in October, many municipalities still participate in Araw ng Davao Oriental activities such as cultural performances, ecological awareness events, and exhibitions that promote tourism and environmental conservation.

Across the Davao Region, July 1 is not just a celebration of history — it is a celebration of identity, growth, and community spirit. As each province proudly upholds its distinct traditions and industries, Araw ng Davao, in all its local forms, continues to symbolize resilience, unity in diversity, and the enduring legacy of a region that thrives on progress while honoring its roots.

Celebrating Heritage and Industry: Araw ng Davao and Regional Festivals Mark July 1st in the Davao Region

DAVAO REGION, Philippines — July 1, 2025 — The first day of July marks a significant and meaningful occasion across the Davao Region, as residents celebrate Araw ng Davao — a commemorative event honoring the historic division of the once-unified Davao province into three separate provinces: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental. Established through Republic Act No. 4867 in 1967, this division played a key role in shaping the administrative, political, and cultural landscape of Mindanao’s southeastern corridor.

Araw ng Davao is observed with colorful and spirited festivities across all three provinces, highlighting unity, identity, and progress. The celebration includes civic and military parades, tribal dances, beauty pageants, and sports competitions. Local governments also mount agro-trade fairs, promoting the region’s abundant agricultural resources and investment opportunities.

In Davao del Norte, the city of Tagum takes the spotlight with its vibrant Banana Philippine Festival, honoring the province’s thriving banana industry — a pillar of the local economy and a globally exported commodity. Street dancers clad in elaborate banana-inspired costumes fill the streets, while agricultural exhibitions showcase innovations and products that highlight the province’s commitment to sustainability and trade.

In Davao del Sur, the celebration is often paired with Ani Festival, a local festivity that gives thanks for bountiful harvests and agricultural abundance. The event features cultural performances, street dancing, and community gatherings that honor both indigenous heritage and farming traditions. The province, known for its scenic landscapes and agricultural contributions, uses this occasion to reflect on its growth and community resilience.

Meanwhile, Davao Oriental highlights its celebration through cultural and eco-tourism events, often aligned with its natural assets and rich indigenous traditions. Festivities typically include the Sambuokan Festival, although celebrated in October, its themes of unity and cultural diversity are echoed in July's commemorative programs. On Araw ng Davao, various towns in the province organize exhibits, local dance performances, and environmental activities, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural depth of the easternmost province in Mindanao.

Together, these July 1 celebrations paint a vibrant picture of a region deeply rooted in history and culture, yet steadfast in its pursuit of development and regional pride. As the people of the Davao Region come together to honor their shared past and dynamic present, Araw ng Davao continues to serve as a symbol of unity, diversity, and progress.

Strengthening Global Ties: The City College of Davao Welcomes Former Consul General of Japan

📍 June 2, 2025 | Strengthening Global Ties: The City College of Davao Welcomes Former Consul General of Japan

The City College of Davao (CCD) had the distinct honor of hosting Mr. Miwa Yoshiaki, former Consul General of Japan in Davao, on June 2, 2025. Accompanying him was a representative from the Davao City Investment and Promotion Center (DCIPC), further signifying shared interest in cross-border educational and cultural cooperation.

Welcoming Mr. Yoshiaki were CCD Vice President for Administration, Mr. Jamaico C. Magayo, and International Affairs Focal Person, Dr. Ida G. Tudy, alongside key members of the CCD administration.

During the courtesy visit, Mr. Yoshiaki led discussions on potential partnerships and collaboration opportunities, particularly in the areas of student exchange, joint research, and institutional linkages.

“I believe in the value of building strong academic and cultural bridges between our nations. Opportunities such as student exchange and research cooperation not only enrich academic life but also promote mutual understanding between Japan and the Philippines,” said Mr. Yoshiaki during the dialogue.

The meeting was met with optimism and enthusiasm by CCD officials, who emphasized the college’s growing vision for international engagement.

“CCD is honored to explore this meaningful partnership. We are committed to creating global pathways for our students and faculty, and today’s dialogue with Mr. Yoshiaki is a promising step forward,” said Mr. Jamaico C. Magayo, Vice President for Administration.

This visit affirms the institution’s continued efforts to internationalize higher education and broaden academic horizons for the Dabawenyo youth.

🌐 Stay tuned for updates on this promising collaboration and upcoming global initiatives.

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