Kadayawan Fest to push through amid terror threats

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival will push through amid the recent terror threats and bomb attacks that left several persons dead and wounded in some parts of Mindanao.

Earlier, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte considered shelving the celebration following the bomb attacks in Cagayan de Oro and Cotabato last week.

Duterte, who led the festival opening at the People’s Park the other night, announced that the celebration would push through despite the threats.

The mayor met with intelligence officers of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces local units here in Southern Mindanao shortly after the opening rites.

He said both the police and military authorities assured him of additional troop deployments to secure the festivities, which would culminate with the Indak-Indak sa Dalan street dancing and a floral fruit parade on Aug. 17 and 18.

The festival draws both local and foreign tourists.

President Aquino has declared Aug. 16 as official holiday in Davao City for the celebration of the Kadayawan Festival.

Now on its 28th year, the Kadayawan celebrates the unity of the Dabawenyos.