Mercado Dabawenyo Transforms Rizal Park into a Hub of Local Commerce
The grounds of Rizal Park along Magallanes Street in Davao City officially became a vibrant center of local commerce on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with the grand opening of Mercado Dabawenyo. This flagship event of the 89th Araw ng Dabaw festivities is a five-day trade fair running until March 28, designed to showcase the city's entrepreneurial spirit and agricultural wealth.
A Showcase of Local Products and Fresh Harvests
The market features a curated selection of 35 concessionaires, including artisanal food stalls, refreshment hubs, and various local products. Beyond ready-to-eat treats, Mercado Dabawenyo emphasizes Davao's rich agricultural heritage with dedicated sections for fresh, farm-to-table produce sourced directly from districts like Maa, Buhangin, and Calinan. This initiative reinforces the government's commitment to supporting micro-enterprises and local farmers.
Empowering Farmers and MSMEs
Nonito D. Delgado, vice president of the Association of Davao Organic Advocates (ADOA) Wellness Products, expressed gratitude for the platform provided to local growers. He highlighted that their products are organic, free from pesticides, insecticides, and chemicals. Delgado noted the benefit of the extended five-day schedule, allowing continuous sales of vegetables, herbs, and fruits, though he mentioned that income is moderate as the event focuses more on evening activities.
For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the fair offers a golden opportunity for brand exposure. Juliana Olarte, owner of Astra, which specializes in cold refreshment drinks, burgers, chicken tenders, and rice bowls, shared her excitement at being selected. She described Mercado Dabawenyo as a big change for their sales, expressing gratitude for the opportunity, especially as a starting business.
Visitor Enthusiasm and Safety Measures
Visitors have responded positively to the event. One fair-goer, Mia, described her experience as satisfying, noting that every corner offers affordable choices. To ensure a peaceful celebration, personnel from the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) are heavily deployed throughout the vicinity. Ronald Gomez, a Public Safety and Security Auxiliary, explained their proactive stance on crime prevention, including monitoring for potential crimes and enforcing entry prohibitions on items like certain bags and sharp objects.
Mercado Dabawenyo is open daily from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. until March 28, 2026, with free entrance for the public. This event not only celebrates Davao's culture but also provides a significant boost to the local economy by connecting consumers with homegrown products and supporting community livelihoods.
