Davao City Student Art Exhibit Opens at Poblacion Market Central
In a vibrant celebration of National Arts Month, the artworks of students from 11 Special Program for the Arts schools in Davao City are now being showcased at the Poblacion Market Central. This exhibition, which opened on February 21, 2026, and will run until March 7, 2026, highlights the creative talents of young Dabawenyo artists and aligns with the national theme "Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting", focusing on community, memory, hope, and peace.
Mayor's Message and Community Support
During the opening ceremony, Davao City Culture and the Arts and Heritage Head Oscar Casaysay read a speech from Mayor Sebastian Baste Duterte, who emphasized the significance of the event. "Today we do not just celebrate the talents of our Dabawenyo youth artists but also recognize the passion, discipline, and perseverance that they have for their craft," Duterte stated. He praised the artworks as reflections of the students' thoughts, emotions, and unique perspectives on human experience.
The mayor extended gratitude to partners who contributed to the event's success, noting their cooperation as a model for fostering future artists in the city. He encouraged young artists to continue refining their skills and creating works that enrich Davao City's cultural heritage.
Educational Impact and Future Prospects
Edmund Superada, Mapeh/SPA Department Head of Davao City National High School, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity provided by the Office of Culture and the Arts and the City Government, along with stakeholders. "Very important and very significant for students to be given this kind of opportunity, in short, their artworks are exposed and showcased outside the community," Superada said, highlighting the joy of parents and teachers.
Out of the 12 SPA schools in Davao City, 11 participated in this exhibit, with most being secondary schools and one elementary school. Superada looks forward to expanding participation in future years, noting that this is not the first time SPA schools have joined such exhibitions.
Invitation to the Public
Superada invites all Dabawenyos to visit Poblacion Market and witness the diverse artworks by young visual artists. This event serves as a testament to the city's commitment to nurturing artistic expression and promoting cultural awareness among its youth.
