Through Executive Order No. 50, Series of 2026, the Province of Davao Oriental has declared July 1 as a special non-working holiday in celebration of the 59th Araw ng Davao Oriental. The executive order was issued on June 25, 2026, by Provincial Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang.
Governor Orders Participation in Commemorative Activities
Governor Dayanghirang stated that July 1 marks the founding anniversary of the province. The special non-working holiday will be observed throughout the province as per the executive order. “All provincial government offices and instrumentalities are hereby directed to observe the holiday and to participate in the appropriate commemorative activities, subject to the continued delivery of essential and emergency public services,” Dayanghirang said in the order.
The order further encourages all national government agencies, government-owned or controlled corporations, local government units, educational institutions, business establishments, and the private sector in Davao Oriental to observe the holiday.
Legal Basis for the Holiday
Republic Act No. 4867, enacted on May 8, 1967, created the provinces of Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, and Davao del Sur. Subsequently, Republic Act No. 6380, approved on August 16, 1971, declared July 1 as a public holiday in these three provinces. Republic Act No. 8256, enacted on February 13, 1997, further specified that the foundation and feast days of Davao Oriental and its municipalities would be observed as Special Non-Working Public Holidays.
Theme and Month-Long Celebration
This year’s theme for the 59th Araw ng Davao Oriental is “Duyog sa Pagbangon, Kusog sa Paglambo,” which reflects the spirit of the residents of Davao Oriental. The month-long celebration features sports competitions, environmental activities, cultural showcases, community gatherings, tourism promotions, and the much-awaited founding anniversary festivities.
Major Highlights
- Inalima Festival (June 26–30)
- TriDayOr 2026
- 1st GNLD Car Show
- Davao Oriental Marathon
- Volleyball, basketball, taekwondo, tennis, pickleball, darts, and esports competitions
Other Key Events
- Tree Planting Activity
- Wellness and Health Caravan
- ZumBasura Coastal Clean-up Drive
- Pagka'an Nato Ini
- Davao Oriental Tourism Promotional and Video Launching
- Job Fair 2026
- Davao Oriental Investment Conference 2026
Conclusion on July 1
The festivities will conclude on July 1 with an Anniversary Mass, the Anniversary Program, the Gawad Oriental Davaoeño, and the traditional Hudyakaan celebration.
