VICE PRESIDENT Sara Z. Duterte called on Davaoeños to fiercely protect the city’s “shared culture of security” in a message marking the 89th Araw ng Dabaw on March 1, 2026.
The Vice President’s statement comes as the city celebrates a dual milestone: its 89th charter anniversary and the centennial of the iconic Davao City Hall.
However, her words carried a weight that extended beyond local festivities, touching on themes of government accountability and the “legacy” of the Duterte brand of leadership.
In her message, Duterte credited Davao’s nine decades of progress to a “solid foundation of mutual trust,” emphasizing that the city’s success is not just a government achievement but a result of active citizenship.
“In Davao, the people are not just spectators; you are active partners in keeping our homes safe, and our government focused,” Duterte said. She noted that this vigilance is what allows the city to remain a “haven of order” even when “challenges arise.”
A message of continuity
The Vice President, who previously served as the city’s mayor, leaned heavily into the “legacy” of the local government.
Her call to “protect this peace and the legacy of a government that listens” appears to be a nod to the grassroots support her family continues to enjoy in the region, particularly as political tensions rise on the national stage.
“I will work with you to ensure that Davao remains a city of opportunity and becomes a strong haven of hope for all,” she stated in Cebuano.
Security and celebration
The 89th Araw ng Dabaw is one of the most significant in recent history, with the city government allocating ₱50 million for a month-long celebration expected to draw over 200,000 tourists.
A key highlight is the “100 Years of City Hall” projection mapping show, symbolizing the city’s historical resilience.
Duterte’s emphasis on “reporting concerns” and “holding leadership to a higher standard” serves as a reminder of the “Davao Model” of governance—one that prioritizes peace and order as the primary driver for economic growth.
She concluded her message with her signature sign-off: “Mahalon nato Ang Pilipinas, para sa Diyos, sa Nasud, ug matag Pamilyang Pilipino (Let’s love the Philippines—for God, the Nation, and every Filipino Family).”
