MANILA, Philippines — Aside from delicious Filipino delicacies and vivacious street parties, this year's Kadayawan Festival will put the spotlight on the 11 tribes of Davao City through a photo exhibit.
The photo exhibit, which will be set up at the Durian Dome of the People’s Park on August 15 is a first in the festival. In an interview with the STAR, Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre said the exhibit aims to respond to the series of killings of indigenous people in Mindanao while educating the younger generations about their identities.
An infographic showing the eleven tribes is shared by the official page of the Kadayawan Festival 2016 on Facebook.
"Eleven Lumad and Muslim communities in Davao City which are among the reasons why we are celebrating the 31st Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival."
Kadayawan Festival which comes from the Mandaya word "mandayaw," meaning beautiful, is an annual celebration in Davao held every third week of August. It aims to celebrate life, the gift of nature and rich indigenous roots of Filipinos by holding different activities.
The celebration which will last until August 21 kicks off today with a photo exhibit, thanksgiving mass, opening ceremonies and cultural shows.
Reports mentioned that the reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach who has Mindanaoan roots will attend the festival and be one of the judges at the Hiyas sa Kadayawan on August 19. Meanwhile, Davao Today confirms President Rodrigo Duterte will also join the annual celebration.
Below is a promotional video of Kadayawan Festival featuring the president:
— Alixandra Caole Vila