The "Pamilyang Dabawenyo, Disiplinado" photograph has clinched the top prize in this year's Hulagway sa Araw ng Dabaw 2024 competition. Captured by Excelsio Hiponia Jr., the image portrays a family adhering to designated viewing areas while enthusiastically observing the parade during the Parada Dabawenyo Event. It also highlights the efforts of marshals in maintaining order, ensuring families and spectators can fully enjoy the festivities without disruption.
Tourism Expectations and Budget Allocation
In preparation for the 89th Araw ng Dabaw, the Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) anticipates welcoming 200,000 visitors. Willenito P. Tormis, officer-in-charge of the CTOO, stated that this target aims to surpass the 150,000 visitors recorded during the 2025 celebration by 50,000. He expressed optimism during a media launch on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Rogen Inn, citing the month-long duration and numerous accredited events as factors that could help achieve this goal.
Accommodations and Promotions
Gene C. Bangayan, co-chairperson of the Araw ng Dabaw executive committee, assured that sufficient hotel rooms are available to accommodate the expected tourist influx. She noted that arrivals are gradually increasing, with rooms beginning to fill up. Bangayan encouraged the public to visit Davao City and take advantage of the Davao Passport, which offers discounts and promotions from private partners during the event.
Financial and Security Measures
The CTOO has allocated a P50 million budget for this year's celebration. Of this total, P41 million is designated for events, while P9 million is set aside for safety and security measures. Tormis explained that the budget reflects a P500,000 increase from previous years, due to adjustments in the event lineup, including the removal of some activities and the addition of new ones.
Holiday Declaration and Event Schedule
Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz announced that a request has been submitted to Malacañang Palace to declare March 16, 2026, as a special non-working holiday. The Sangguniang Panlungsod secretary has forwarded the resolution, and officials are awaiting the proclamation.
The celebration will commence with Kanta ug Sayaw Dabawenyo on February 28, followed by Misa Pasasalamat at San Pedro Square and Pasiugdang Pagsaulog at City Hall of Davao on March 1. Major month-long events include the Araw ng Dabaw Trade Fair and Bazaar at Magsaysay Park and the "100 Years of City Hall: Projection Mapping" at City Hall from March 1 to 31.
Other highlights feature Kundiman at Harana sa Araw ng Dabaw on March 7, 8, 20, 21, and 22; the Mutya ng Dabaw 2026 Preliminaries at SM City Davao Annex on March 8; and Salida Dabawenyo at the Cinematheque from March 10 to 13. The conferment of Datu Bago is scheduled for March 18, followed by the Mutya ng Dabaw Grand Coronation on March 20. The festivities will conclude with Parada Dabawenyo and Konsierto Dabawenyo on March 28.
