The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro officially inaugurated its 19th Bulawan Festival and 28th Founding Anniversary on March 2, 2026, at the Bulawan Events Center located within the Capitol Grounds in Nabunturan. This significant event marked the first official report by Governor Raul Mabanglo since he assumed office, focusing on the province's unwavering commitment to providing essential services and pushing forward with development projects, even in the face of severe challenges posed by recent shear line disasters.
Governor Mabanglo Addresses Natural Disasters and Relief Efforts
In his opening remarks, Governor Mabanglo acknowledged the harsh realities faced by Davao de Oro, stating, "Davao de Oro has once again faced the brunt of nature's power. There are communities that have been flooded; families who have evacuated, and a sense of anxiety in every affected household. The livelihoods of several farmers have been impacted. And all of this requires our attention." He emphasized that despite these adversities, the province remains steadfast in its pursuit of development, ensuring that celebrations do not overshadow the needs of those affected by calamities.
Governor Mabanglo reiterated that relief operations are ongoing in impacted communities, with sustained assistance being provided to families displaced by floods and other disasters. Over the past eight months, Davao de Oro has responded to a series of challenges, including landslides and severe weather disturbances, all while maintaining uninterrupted delivery of public services to its residents.
Key Sector Gains and Development Initiatives
Governor Mabanglo highlighted significant progress across multiple sectors during his report. In healthcare, services were expanded through the establishment of a BUCAS Center in partnership with the Davao Regional Medical Center, improvements in all four provincial hospitals, and the rollout of the Kalamboan Serbisyo Caravan, which brought medical assistance directly to communities.
Social services saw enhancement with the establishment of 11 Maduolan Centers across the province and expanded crisis support programs that have assisted thousands of residents. Infrastructure development continued with improvements in road networks and public facilities, aimed at ensuring access to services even during emergencies.
Support for the agriculture sector was intensified through the provision of farm inputs and the implementation of a rice processing system designed to improve food security and increase farmers' income. Additionally, expanded scholarship programs and investments in sports development supported education and youth engagement throughout the province.
Collaboration and Future Outlook
Governor Mabanglo cited ongoing collaboration with neighboring provinces, particularly Davao Oriental, and the private sector as key to opening opportunities in tourism, business, and employment. As the Bulawan Festival celebrates the province's heritage and identity, he emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation between government and communities to ensure continued progress despite recurring challenges.
He underscored that the strength behind the province's resilience lies in its people, whom he described as the true "Bulawan" of Davao de Oro. In his closing statement, Mabanglo said, "Through our strong collaboration, one message is clear. I, you, all of us are instruments in achieving the development of Davao de Oro. You are the true gold."
Governor Raul Mabanglo concluded his report by expressing gratitude to key allies, including Cong. Maricar Zamora-Mabanglo and Cong. Leonel 'Jhong' Ceniza, as well as all partners in public service. He highlighted their role as essential collaborators in advancing the province through shared responsibility, crucial for sustaining progress and overcoming future challenges in Davao de Oro.
