14/10/2026
๐๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ง๐จ๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ญ๐ฒโ๐ฌ ๐๐ ๐๐ญ๐ก๐ง๐จ๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฎ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฌ
Woven into Davao Cityโs identity are the stories, traditions, and heritage of its 11 ethnolinguistic groups, whose invaluable contributions are being honored by a Davao City councilor this National Indigenous Peoples Month, emphasizing the importance of preserving their heritage and ensuring that their voices remain part of Davaoโs continuing progress.
In her privilege speech on Tuesday, Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz of the Committee on Tourism and Beautification said that the celebration serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to respect and value the diverse cultures and traditions of the ethnolinguistic groups.
Davao City is home the Ata, Bagobo-Klata, Bagobo-Tagabawa, Iranun, Kagan, Maguindanaon, Meranaw, Matigsalug, Obu-Manuvu, Sama and Tausug people.
โOur identity as Dabawenyos is deeply woven from the many stories, practices and traditions of these communities. For many years, these communities have not merely been recipients of development but have been invaluable partners and significant contributors to making Davao City the center of economic and social growth not only in Mindanao but in the country as a whole,โ she said.
Ortiz added that efforts to promote the city must ensure that their traditions and identities are respected and not compromised in the pursuit of progress.
In line with this commitment, Councilor Ortiz passed a resolution recognizing and honoring the Indigenous Peoples of Davao City for their invaluable contributions to the cityโs cultural identity, heritage and sustainable development and reaffirming the cityโs commitment to their empowerment and meaningful participation in building Davaoโs future.
โOur diversity is our strength and every community as a rightful place in Davao that we are building together,โ she added. CIO
Written by: N. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
