Commemorating Davao’s rich history, the Holy Cross of Davao College, through the Institute of Davao Studies in partnership with the Davao Historical Society, hosted the forum Magsturya Ta! Davao Unbound: Remarkable Tale of the First City in Southern Mindanao highlighting discussions on sustainable development, and fostering community engagement among students and teachers, leaders, and Davaoeños in general, last March 9, 2024 at 7F Multipurpose Hall, HCDC.
HCDC President Br. Noelvic H. Deloria, S.C., who officially opened the event, said the forum is a good way to showcase the captivating narratives that shaped Davao’s cultural tapestry through its prolific historical background.
“What a beautiful time to know more about Davao. And what great stories we shall be learning and when we converse, when we share this morning, then we enrich, continue to enrich Davao,” Br. Deloria said.
The forum had two (2) sessions; Session 1: The Creation of the City of Davao The Tale of the First City in Southern Mindanao that highlights the contributions of various individuals or groups in shaping the city’s early history, significance as the first city in Southern Mindanao, and the development of Davao into a prominent urban center. Session 2: Davao’s Economic Boom and Prosperity (1990s-present) explored the impact of Davao’s economic prosperity on its residents’ quality of life, infrastructure development, and social services.
In the first session, Davao City Councilor Pilar C. Braga shared an inspirational message and reported the successful passing of the ordinance aimed for the development of the culture, arts, and heritage of Davao City.
“I pledged then that I would push for an ordinance creating the Davao City, Culture and Arts office. I am happy to report to you today that I have successfully passed the ordinance,” Councilor Braga, also the Chair of the Committee on Education, said.
The forum was also attended by Rhys Lloyd D. Lacia, Focal Person of the Institute of Davao Studies; Mr. Antonio V. Figueroa; Ms. Amalia Cabusao, President of Davao Historical Society; Prof. Patricia Irene Dacudao; Mr. Randy Tubo; Ms. Patricia Melizza B. Ruvivar; Mr. Kevin Paul Bonotan; and students and faculty members of HCDC.
Ms. Amalia Cabusao, President of Davao Historical Society, also expressed her gratitude to the event and highlighted that local history is a powerful tool for fostering a sense of belonging, identity, and connection to the community. (Abigail Sula, BA Comm Intern)