Kadayawan Festival in Davao City Attracts 50,000 Visitors for Indak-Indak and Pamulak Events
Davao City recently experienced an influx of visitors as approximately 50,000 people flocked to witness the spectacular Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan and Pamulak sa Kadayawan events over the weekend. Angel Sumagaysay, the head of the Public Security and Safety Office, expressed his gratitude to both the locals and the tourists for their cooperation, which contributed to the successful execution of the street dancing competition and floral float parade.
Sumagaysay emphasized that the security personnel remained vigilant in ensuring the safety of all festivalgoers by strictly prohibiting the entry of backpacks into the venues. Although there were limitations on space, particularly at the main performance area along San Pedro Street, Sumagaysay assured that the security cluster managed the situation effectively, preventing any potential stampedes. The security team prioritized the safety of vulnerable individuals such as children, pregnant women, and senior citizens, regulating the number of people entering San Pedro Street.
According to Capt. Hazel Tuazon, spokesperson of the Davao City Police Office, both the street dancing competition and floral float parade proceeded peacefully and without any major incidents. The success of these events was a result of the collaborative efforts between the police, other law enforcement agencies, force multipliers, and the support of the community.
The Pamulak event, held on Sunday, showcased 14 non-competing floats, while nine large and 13 small floats participated in the competition. The parade commenced at Roxas Avenue, turning left to C.M. Recto Avenue, right on Bonifacio Street, left on Pelayo Street, and a final left on San Pedro Street.
In the small float category, Alorica Davao claimed the top spot, followed by Teleperformance Davao in second place and the Philippine Retirement Authority in third. In the large float category, VXI secured first place, Philippine Air Asia Inc. came in second, and Vista Mall Davao finished in third.
Meanwhile, the Indak-Indak competition featured satellite performance areas at C.M. Recto Avenue corner Roxas Avenue and Pelayo Street corner Bonifacio Street, in addition to the grand showdown on San Pedro Street. Six groups participated in the Davao City school-based category, while 13 groups competed in the open category, representing various provinces in the Davao Region, as well as other Mindanao provinces.
In the open category, the Sindac Anib Performing Ensemble emerged victorious, with Tribu Maganahay from Matiao National High School’s Special Program securing second place, and Landan National High School Performing Arts Group in third. In the Davao City school-based category, Davao City National High School Sining Sayon Dawet Cultural Ensemble claimed first place, Catalunan Pequeño National High School Sining Mananayaw Ensemble achieved second place, and Lapu Lapu Elementary School Performing Arts Company earned third place.
With this year’s Kadayawan Festival receiving overwhelming support and surpassing expectations, organizers anticipate an even larger turnout in the following years.
Overall, the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City successfully entertained and captivated audiences with its vibrant street dancing competition and awe-inspiring floral float parade. The variety of participants from different provinces added to the diversity and richness of the festival. As the event continues to grow in popularity, the city aims to provide an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists, ensuring that the Kadayawan Festival remains a highlight on Davao City’s cultural calendar.
