An iconic chapter in Davao City's urban history came to a close as Victoria Plaza officially ceased operations on December 31, 2025. For over three decades, the city's first and oldest mall served as a central hub for generations, making its final night a deeply sentimental event for countless residents.
A Flood of Memories for Dabawenyos
The mall's closure triggered a wave of nostalgia across social media, with families, students, and senior citizens sharing personal stories. For many, Victoria Plaza was the backdrop for weekend family trips, first dates, school outings, and countless afternoons spent in its cinemas and popular food hall. Its role extended far beyond commerce, weaving itself into the very social and cultural fabric of the city.
Ruby Dags spoke for many senior citizens, noting the food hall was a stress-free haven for forming lasting friendships over coffee. "The plaza became a stress-free haven for them, but now they're filled with sadness as their group has disbanded," she shared. Others, like Aba Rodriguez, recalled the historic opening day on March 16, 1993, which coincided with Araw ng Davao. The crowds were so massive that escalators had to be temporarily halted.
From Inauguration to Acquisition: A Mall's Journey
Victoria Plaza Commercial Center was inaugurated and blessed on March 16, 1993, built and managed by the Davao Sunrise Investment & Development Corporation. It was envisioned under then-president Robert Alan Limso to provide shopping comfort and convenience for Davao's progressing community.
The mall's trajectory changed in 2019 when the NCCC Group of Companies acquired it, later renaming it NCCC Mall VP. Lafayette A. Lim, President and CEO of NCCC Group, explained that redevelopment plans were delayed by factors including a busted air conditioning system and the 2020 pandemic. Concurrently, the group focused on rebuilding NCCC Mall Davao, which was lost in a 2017 fire, into NCCC Mall Ma-a.
"As one year after another passed, it was clear we can no longer pursue our original dream for VP," Lim stated. The company organized a farewell walk and tour on December 30, 2025, honoring Davao's pioneer street photographers who documented the city's life.
A New Chapter: Redevelopment and Lasting Legacy
The future of the prime 9.6-hectare property is now set for transformation. Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) is slated to take over the site in 2026, with plans to develop a modern mixed-use complex featuring retail, lifestyle, and commercial spaces to meet the city's evolving demands.
The closure marks a significant shift in Davao's commercial landscape, which has seen newer malls and digital commerce reshape consumer behavior. Yet, Victoria Plaza's legacy as the city's first mall and a repository of shared memories remains unmatched. As Danilo Fresco Celis reflected, "It has served its purpose and [has] poignant memories of my younger years."
While its corridors now stand quiet, the stories of first jobs, cinema visits, and family traditions ensure that Victoria Plaza will endure as a cherished part of Davao City's history, even as the city prepares for its next commercial chapter.
