The iconic Davao City Hall is undergoing a significant transformation as its facade is currently being repainted to restore its original white finish, a move that honors the building's neoclassical architectural design first introduced in 1926. This restoration effort is a key part of the city government's preparations for two major upcoming events: the Araw ng Davao celebration and the building's 100th anniversary this year. The repainting of the facade is now in progress, with the rest of the structure scheduled to follow in the coming days, ensuring the landmark shines brightly for its centennial milestone.
Economic Enterprise Sets Ambitious Income Target
In parallel with the City Hall restoration, the Davao City Economic Enterprise (CEE) has announced an ambitious goal to increase its income target to 100 percent this year, a notable rise from the 91 percent overall target achieved in 2025. Maximo Macalipes, manager of the CEE, explained that this target is driven by the full utilization of key city facilities that were previously under repair.
Facility Reopenings and Event Opportunities
Macalipes highlighted that the Almendras Gym, which underwent necessary repairs, is now open and operational, contributing to the expected income boost. Additionally, the Davao City Crematorium, which required urgent repairs to its cremation machine leading to a temporary closure in April 2025, is back in service. He emphasized that these reopenings, combined with upcoming events such as a carnival at Coastal Road and other planned activities, are pivotal in driving the city's economic growth. During the ISpeak Media Forum held on Thursday morning, February 26, 2026, at the City Mayor's Office, Macalipes expressed optimism about leveraging these opportunities to surpass income expectations.
Top Performing Units and Revenue Highlights
Despite some challenges, several of the city's economic enterprise units have demonstrated strong performance in 2025. Macalipes cited the top 10 performing units, including:
- Tagakpan Public Cemetery, which generated P3 million, marking a staggering 430.5 percent increase from P700,000 in 2024.
- Magsaysay Park with P1 million in revenue.
- Calinan Public Market and special project operations concessionaires, each contributing P13 million.
Other notable performers include Wireless Public Cemetery at P4 million, Maa Public Cemetery at P1 million, Bunawan Public Cemetery at P733,799, Sta. Ana Port at P1 million, Calinan Public Cemetery at P561,852, and Agdao Public Market with an impressive P33 million. In 2024, the Davao City Economic Enterprise's total revenue reached approximately ₱211 million, exceeding its target and showing growth from the previous year, setting a solid foundation for the 2026 goals.
This dual focus on preserving cultural heritage through the City Hall restoration and boosting economic vitality through strategic enterprise management underscores Davao City's commitment to both its historical legacy and future prosperity.
