Davao City Ushers in the Christmas Season with Grand Tree Lighting
The City Government of Davao officially ushered in the holiday season on November 27, 2025, with the spectacular lighting of its 30-foot giant Christmas tree. The event, dubbed Dan-ag Davao ug Pag-abli sa Pasko, was held at the historic Rizal Park, marking the formal start of the city's Pasko Fiesta celebrations.
Celebrating Paskong Pilipino: Theme and Festivities
This year’s festivities revolve around the theme “Paskong Dabawenyo, Paskong Pilipino,” which aims to capture the authentic Filipino Christmas spirit. The celebration prominently features traditional icons such as the parol (lantern), torotot (noisemaker), and the nipa hut. Dabawenyos were treated to a night of entertainment with several performances from homegrown talents, including a show by artist Jona Soquite. The evening also served as the public unveiling of the official Pasko Fiesta music video.
Leadership Messages: Peace, Respect, and the Future
In his address, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte reflected on the core values of the Dabawenyo people. He emphasized that Dabawenyos are known for being helpful and disciplined, traits ingrained during the leadership of his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“What we always give importance to is peace. That peace can be achieved if we know how to be giving, if we know how to look out for our fellow people, and give respect to one another — that’s where everything begins,” Mayor Duterte stated. He expressed confidence that upholding these values would greatly benefit the city's future.
The acting mayor also highlighted the priority of educating the youth, ensuring children can study and practice their beliefs, so they may inherit a city free from today's challenges.
Echoing the sentiment of the season, Acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II described Christmas as the most anticipated time of the year for Filipinos. He called for the Christmas spirit to heal the public, urging everyone to choose peace over conflict, stability over chaos, and love over hatred.
“Let us set aside greed and selfishness and other inhumane action rather let us treat anyone with respect, basic decency, and care that every human being deserves,” he appealed.
Budget Adjustments and Festive Assurance
The Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) disclosed that this year’s Pasko Fiesta has a budget of ₱44 million. This is ₱8 million less than the ₱52 million allocated in 2024. The office had initially sought ₱32 million but later requested an additional ₱12 million, bringing the total to the current amount.
Officials confirmed that the reduced budget led to the removal of several events, including the Year-End Party. However, they were quick to assure the public that the cuts would not dampen the festive atmosphere, emphasizing that a plethora of activities remains for visitors and residents to enjoy throughout the season.
